Not all car accidents are created equal.
A fender-bender at a red light is a whole different animal than a violent side-impact crash at an intersection.
In Texas, two of the most common types of collisions are rear-end accidents and T-bone accidents (also called side-impact or broadside crashes). While both can cause serious injuries, the legal and insurance issues surrounding each are very different.
If you’ve been involved in either one, here’s what you need to know to protect your rights and get compensated.
A rear-end crash happens when one vehicle hits the back of another. This often occurs due to:
In most cases, the driver in the back is considered at fault—but not always. There are exceptions, which we’ll cover shortly.
A T-bone accident happens when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These usually occur at intersections and are often caused by:
Determining fault in a T-bone crash can be more complex than in a rear-end collision. It often comes down to who had the right of way and who violated traffic laws.
Texas uses comparative negligence, meaning both drivers can share fault. But even then, the rear driver typically bears the brunt.
That’s why T-bone accidents often require a car accident lawyer help to investigate thoroughly.
Whiplash is the most common and often underestimated. Symptoms may not show up for days.
T-bone crashes are more dangerous overall, especially for passengers sitting on the impacted side. The sides of vehicles have less protection than the front or rear.
That’s why T-bone victims should never go it alone. Having a legal team like Jim Adler & Associates levels the playing field.
Regardless of the type of accident, take these steps immediately:
A: Usually—but not 100%. Exceptions include brake-checking or faulty brake lights.
A: You’ll need an attorney to help collect evidence—like traffic camera footage or witness statements.
A: Yes. Texas follows modified comparative fault. If you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages (reduced by your % of fault).
Rear-end and T-bone crashes may seem similar at first glance—but they play out very differently when it comes to injuries, fault, and insurance claims. The one thing they have in common?
They can both turn your life upside down.
Let us help set things right.
Rear-end or T-bone, you still deserve justice.
Call Jim Adler today for a FREE consultation. We’ll investigate your crash, prove fault, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
