James D. Payer | July 30, 2024 | Car Accidents
T-Bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, are among the most devastating types of car accidents. They can cause severe injuries due to the limited protection offered by the side panels of vehicles. Not all vehicles have side airbags and intrusion of the door from the impact can cause life-threatening injuries. This intrusion can crush occupants and cause a secondary impact with other objects in the car.
A T-bone accident occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These accidents often happen at intersections when one driver runs a red light or fails to yield the right of way. Side-impact crashes are the second most deadly type of crash after head-on collisions.
If you have been in a T-bone accident in Orlando, understanding the common injuries associated with these crashes can help you seek the medical care and support you need.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries are common in T-bone accidents due to the sudden, forceful impact. The head can collide with the window, door, or other objects, leading to concussions or more severe brain damage.
A TBI can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. TBIs can have long-lasting effects, including memory loss, cognitive impairments, and emotional difficulties.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a T-bone collision can cause the spine to twist or compress, leading to spinal cord injuries. A spinal cord injury is a catastrophic injury that affects every aspect of your life. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the damage.
Back and Neck Injuries
A side-impact crash can cause many types of neck and back injuries. The impact can cause a sudden jerking motion of the head, which results in whiplash. Herniated discs are also common after a serious crash.
Fractures
The force of a T-bone collision can cause fractures in various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These fractures can range from simple breaks to complex, compound fractures.
Chest Injuries
The chest is particularly vulnerable in a T-bone accident as the force of the impact can cause blunt force trauma to the upper body, especially if the door panel crumbles or intrudes into the cabin. This can lead to broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and damage to internal organs.
An aortic injury is a rare but very serious injury that can occur in a side-impact crash. Lateral impacts are associated with aortic shearing or dissection. This happens when the aorta, the heart’s largest blood vessel, is torn.
Seat Belt Syndrome
While seat belts save lives, they can also cause a specific set of injuries known as seat belt syndrome.
Common seat belt injuries include:
- Bruising
- Collarbone and rib fractures
- Internal bleeding
- Damage to abdominal organs
Seat belt syndrome can be mild to severe. Some injuries, like bowel perforation, can be life-threatening.
Hip and Knee Injuries
The impact of a T-bone collision can cause significant injuries to the hips and knees, including dislocations, fractures, and ligament tears. Symptoms of hip and knee injuries include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and MRIs are used to assess the injuries.
If you suffer injury to the knee or hip, you may need months of rehabilitation to regain function and mobility. Sometimes, surgical intervention is required to repair serious damage.
Crush Injuries
Crush injuries happen when part of the body is compressed between two objects. Excessive pressure or force can cause extensive damage to the skin, bones, nerves, and muscles. High-speed side-impact collisions have a high risk of crush injuries when the car door intrudes into the cabin, pinning an occupant.
Crush injuries can happen very suddenly, but they can also happen over time when someone is trapped in the wreckage. Aside from the initial damage, crush injuries can trigger a cascade of metabolic issues with life-threatening complications. A crush injury can result in compartment syndrome, rhabdomyolysis, kidney damage, and amputation.
An Orlando Car Accident Attorney Can Help if You’re Injured in a T-Bone Accident
If you have been involved in a T-bone accident in Orlando, Florida, it’s important to seek medical attention right away, even if you do not think you are seriously hurt. If someone else was responsible for your crash, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
To discuss your case and explore your options for compensation, contact our experienced personal injury lawyers at Payer Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Orange County and its surrounding areas:
Payer Law Personal Injury Lawyers
6735 Conroy Rd STE 332,
Orlando, FL 32835
Phone: (407) 794-3904