Who Is Liable for T-Bone Accidents in Pennsylvania?

Legally reviewed by:
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
September 13, 2023
Side collision of two autos on road

Facing the aftermath of a T-bone accident can be a distressing ordeal that can leave you with costly catastrophic injuries and uncertainty about your next course of action. When confronted with this legal predicament, you may grapple with questions of liability and the need for competent legal representation to help you navigate the complex process effectively.

Understanding who is liable for T-bone accidents in Pennsylvania is crucial to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. A personal injury attorney with extensive experience handling T-bone accident cases can help. They will protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Negligence and Fault in T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents or broadside collisions typically occur at intersections, and often one driver fails to yield the right-of-way or disregards traffic signals, leading to the impact. Assembling pertinent documents, such as eyewitness testimonies, accident reconstruction reports, and traffic camera footage, can help determine fault. In addition, consult a personal injury lawyer specializing in T-bone accidents, as it can be instrumental in building a strong case and proving negligence.

When it comes to determining liability, negligence plays a pivotal role in establishing which party acted negligently and caused the crash. Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means liability for the accident can be divided between multiple parties based on their degree of fault. A litigant may not be compensated if they are deemed to be 50% or more at fault.

This system considers the concept of negligence, which is failure to exercise reasonable care, bringing about harm or damage to another person or their property. It is an approach that recognizes that most car accidents involve multiple factors and parties; assigning all the blame to only one party may be unjust. The legal system considers each party’s negligence and strives to distribute responsibility more equitably.

This way, the damages awarded in a T-bone accident reflect the proportionate contribution of each party to the occurrence of the accident. While a person can still be compensated even if they were partially at fault for the accident, the specific details and application of modified comparative negligence laws can vary between jurisdictions. Seeking legal representation from an attorney knowledgeable in Pennsylvania law would provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Possible Liable Parties in T-Bone Accidents

Determining liability in T-bone accidents involves identifying the parties responsible for the crash. The liable parties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. In general, the following parties may be held accountable:

  • The driver who acted negligently, such as running a red light, making an illegal turn, or failing to give right of way, can be liable for the T-bone accident.
  • If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle owned by someone else, the owner might bear liability under certain circumstances, such as negligently entrusting the vehicle to an incompetent or unlicensed driver.
  • If the negligent driver was operating a vehicle within the scope of their employment, their employer may be held vicariously liable for the accident. This situation commonly arises in cases involving commercial vehicles or company cars.

In some cases, poor road conditions can contribute to T-bone accidents. If a government entity is responsible for the maintenance/design of the intersection where the side-impact collision occurred, it may be held liable.

Importance of Seeking Legal Assistance in T-Bone Accidents

Handling the complexities of a T-bone accident can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies and proving fault. You can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation by engaging the services of a personal injury lawyer specializing in T-bone accidents in Pennsylvania.

A seasoned attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. They possess in-depth knowledge of Pennsylvania’s laws pertaining to T-bone accidents and have a track record of successfully representing clients in similar cases. They will meticulously investigate the accident, gather exculpatory evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, advocate for your rights in court.

Benefits of Working With a Pennsylvania Personal Injury Attorney

Working with a personal injury lawyer brings several advantages. You may encounter various challenges following a T-bone accident, and a skilled attorney will prioritize your best interests throughout the legal proceedings. Some benefits of onboarding one include:

  • Experience and expertise: Attorneys have extensive experience handling T-bone accident cases, enabling them to navigate the intricacies of Pennsylvania’s legal system effectively. They possess the knowledge and skills to build a strong case and pursue maximum compensation.
  • Personalized attention: A personal injury lawyer who values personal connection with their clients will provide individualized attention, taking the time to understand your unique circumstances and tailor their legal strategies accordingly.
  • Negotiation skills: Insurance companies often try to settle claims for less than what victims truly deserve. A seasoned attorney is adept at negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, medical expenses, and other losses.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will take your case to court. They will diligently represent your interests by presenting a compelling case to the judge and jury.

Hire a Knowledgeable Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer From RGSG Today

If you or someone you know has been involved in a T-bone accident in Pennsylvania, the first thing you want to do is seek legal representation. Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., has a team of skilled personal injury attorneys ready to assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.

With our extensive knowledge, experience, and commitment to client advocacy, RGSG can provide you with the legal support needed to navigate the complexities of T-bone accident cases. Do not delay—take the first step toward protecting your rights and securing the compensation you are entitled to. To learn more about how we can help you, call (215) 822-7575 or fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation and case assessment.


Legally reviewed by:
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
September 13, 2023
Established in 1952 by Irwin S. Rubin, Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. boasts over 65 years of experience serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. Renowned for its commitment to ethical representation, the firm has garnered prestigious accolades, including being named the "Best Law Firm" for its outstanding legal defense work by U.S. News & World Report. Their team of seasoned attorneys, recognized as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, brings unparalleled expertise to a wide range of legal matters, ensuring exceptional representation for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations.