Car accidents involving a side impact are the most deadly form of crash, and they are frighteningly common. A side impact, or T-bone, accident occurs when a car is struck on its side by the front of oncoming car, often at an intersection. About 9,000 deaths per year result when a car is hit on the side. Unfortunately, safety requirements anticipating side-impact crashes are not always considered necessary. Side airbags are uncommon and not required, and until recently most cars test poorly for side-impact safety. If you or a loved one has been injured in a side impact accident in California, contact an attorney to learn your rights.

Side impact crashes are most common in intersections, when cars are changing lanes, or more dangerously, running red lights or stop signs. A side impact is inherently dangerous because the side of the car, a door and window, offers little protection. The front of the impacting car is nearly always heavier and more powerful than the side of the impacted car it is hitting. Also with the large numbers of SUV’s and trucks in California, the chances of being struck on the side by one of these large vehicle is increased and poses greater risk.

Many experts concur that safety requirements for side impact collisions are outdated, especially for smaller and mid-sized cars. Strengthening of side structures in autos can also be lifesaving. Side impact airbags can protect against head and other injuries. While new safety guidelines have been submitted by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), side impact airbags are still not required.

If you or someone close to you has been injured in a side impact car accident in California, you should speak to a lawyer. Please call the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP toll-free at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776). We will give you a confidential consultation and help you determine your rights during this painful time. Please call us now and let us seek justice for you.