A side-impact collision in Decatur involves either the front-end or side of one vehicle striking the side of another. These commonly occur at intersections and highways where vehicles are traveling at high rates of speed. Due to this, the property damage, and injuries that motorists experience in these accidents can be substantial. Guidance from an experienced attorney in the area is essential to ensure you are fairly compensated for the losses you have suffered.
Types of Side-Impact Wrecks
In most cases, side-impact accidents occur because one driver blows through a red light or stop sign or fails to yield. They can also occur due to distracted or intoxicated motorists. In any case, side-impact collisions in the area are often separated into two categories: sideswipes and T-bones.
Sideswipe
A sideswipe involves the sides of two vehicles striking one another. This type of side-impact collision generally occurs when a driver is changing lanes and fails to check their blind spots for nearby vehicles. If this type of collision occurs on a highway, the high speeds can cause the vehicles to potentially flip over, causing devastating harm to its occupants.
T-Bone
A T-bone collision occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These are most common at intersections. Unfortunately, since the sides of vehicles generally offer less protection than the front and backs of vehicles, these types of wrecks can be catastrophic if not deadly.
Recoverable Damages in Decatur
As previously mentioned, the sides of vehicles do not generally offer much protection as compared to the front and backs. As a result, accidents that involve a car being struck on the side can lead to substantial property damage and personal injuries. People often suffer:
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine damage and paralysis
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Individuals involved in a side-impact wreck in Decatur may be eligible to recover several different categories of damages. Among others, this would include payment of their medical bills, compensation for their past and future pain and suffering, both for physical pain and for mental discomfort.
They will be eligible for compensation for any scarring or disfigurement injuries they suffer, for lost wages or loss of earning capacity, and for any disability or loss of their normal life. As these are often serious cases, unfortunately, some side impact accidents result in the loss of the life. In such cases, additional damages would be available to the family and the deceased individual under the Illinois wrongful death action.
Learn More About Side-Impact Collisions from a Decatur Attorney
People injured in side-impact collisions in Decatur should not hesitate to speak with an experienced attorney in the area. These types of accidents often result in devastating personal injuries and property damage, which can lead to a substantial financial burden as you try to pay for medical bills and vehicle repairs.
Fortunately, a helpful and compassionate lawyer could put together a comprehensive claim against the party responsible for your harm. Call now to schedule your free initial consultation with our dedicated team.