A T-bone accident, also commonly called a side-impact or broadside collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes directly into the side of another, forming a "T" shape. These are among the most dangerous types of crashes because the sides of vehicles offer significantly less protection than the front or rear, leaving occupants highly vulnerable to serious injury.
The severity of a T-bone crash depends on several factors, including the speed of both vehicles at the point of impact, the angle of the collision, and the size and weight of the vehicles involved. A common scenario is at intersections when a driver runs a red light or a stop sign, striking a vehicle that has the right of way.
Modern safety features are critical in mitigating the consequences. Side-impact airbags are designed to deploy instantly to protect the head and torso, while side-impact door beams are reinforced steel bars within the door frames meant to resist intrusion into the passenger cabin. Vehicles with high safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), particularly in their side-impact crash tests, offer the best protection.
The following data from the IIHS illustrates the relationship between vehicle type and driver death rates in side-impact collisions, highlighting the increased risk for smaller vehicles.
| Vehicle Type | Average Driver Deaths per Million Registered Vehicle Years (Side-Impact Crashes) |
|---|
| Large SUVs | 12 |
| Midsize Cars | 24 |
| Small Cars | 36 |
| Mini Cars | 48 |
If you are involved in a T-bone accident, prioritize safety: check for injuries, call 911, and move vehicles out of traffic if it's safe to do so. Always exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver and document the scene with photos. Due to the potential for hidden injuries like whiplash or internal trauma, it is crucial to seek a medical evaluation even if you feel fine initially.
