T-bone accidents are also known as side-impact crashes because they happen when one vehicle collides with the side of another. Side-impact collisions are prevalent at intersections where vehicles travel at a perpendicular angle.
When a driver violates the proper right of way, ignores stop signs or runs red lights, they can run into the side of an oncoming vehicle, creating a “T” shape. Side-impact collisions can be devastating for passengers on the vehicle’s side that absorbed the crash’s impact. Here are some of the most common injuries such passengers can sustain in a T-bone accident.
1. Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury in T-bone accidents, occurring when the head is suddenly and forcefully jerked back and forth. This rapid movement can strain the neck muscles and damage the soft tissues, leading to whiplash.
A prevalent symptom of whiplash is neck pain, which can range from mild to severe. Passengers may also experience difficulty in moving the neck due to muscle tightness.
2. Spinal injuries
Side impact accidents can exert immense force on the spine, causing various spinal injuries. These injuries can affect mobility and, in severe cases, lead to long-term complications.
The forceful impact can cause the discs between vertebrae to rupture, causing herniated discs. High impact can result in fractured vertebrae, affecting spinal stability. The most severe spinal cord injuries may impact nerve function and cause paralysis.
3. Head injuries
T-bone accidents can cause occupants to forcefully collide with the vehicle’s interior, leading to head injuries. The brain, being a delicate organ, is particularly vulnerable in such scenarios. The most common head injury, in this case, is a temporary disruption of brain function, often causing confusion and memory loss.
In the aftermath of a T-bone accident, passengers may face a myriad of injuries. Individuals involved in such accidents should seek immediate medical attention and seek compensation to help mitigate the potential long-term implications of these injuries.