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T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, are the worst kind of crashes on Houston’s roads. When another driver’s negligence causes a side-impact collision, the consequences can be catastrophic – severe injuries to overwhelming medical bills and lost wages.
At The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, we know what T-bone accident victims go through. Our Houston lawyers have years of experience handling side-impact collision cases, fighting for our clients and getting them the maximum recovery they deserve. Whether your accident happened at the Galleria or anywhere else in the Houston area, we can help you through the process and get you back to recovery.
Understanding T-Bone and Side-Impact Accidents in Houston
T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact crashes, are the most common type of crash on Houston’s roads. These occur when one vehicle hits another at a 90 degree angle and form a “T” shape upon impact.
T-bone accidents account for 25% of all fatal crashes in Harris County. According to the most recent Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) stats:
- 4,827 side-impact crashes in Harris County last year
- 42% were at intersections with stop lights
- 68% were driver inattention or distraction
- 13% higher than the state average
High-Risk Areas for T-Bone Accidents in Houston
Here are some of the most dangerous intersections for side-impact crashes in Houston:
Westheimer Road Corridor
- Westheimer at Gessner (127 side-impact crashes)
- Westheimer at Fountain View (98)
- Westheimer at Hillcroft (85)
Southwest Houston
- Bellaire at Fondren (112)
- Richmond at Hillcroft (93)
- Harwin at Gessner (78)
Downtown and Midtown
- Main at Texas (89)
- Fannin at Pierce (76)
- Smith at Walker
T-Bone Accidents in Texas
Side-impact crashes happen at intersections when one driver doesn’t yield or runs the red light. In Houston’s traffic chaos, these crashes are most common during rush hour, especially at major intersections near the Galleria and I-610. The Texas Transportation Code requires drivers to exercise due care at intersections, but driver distraction and aggression often leads to T-bone crashes.
Causes of Side-Impact Collisions in Houston
Here are the common causes:
Running Red Lights: According to HPD stats, red-light running is a leading cause of side-impact crashes, especially at major intersections on Westheimer and Bellaire.
Distracted Driving: Texas law prohibits texting and driving, but distracted driving is still a big factor in side-impact crashes. Harris County reports thousands of distraction-related crashes every year.
Failure to Yield: Many T-bone crashes happen when drivers don’t yield at stop signs or during left turns, especially in busy commercial areas like the Energy Corridor and Downtown Houston.
Bad Weather: Houston’s rain and occasional flooding can cause T-bone crashes by reducing visibility and increasing stopping distance.
Why T-Bone Accidents Are So Bad
Side-impact crashes are bad for vehicle occupants:
Limited Protection: Unlike front and rear crashes, vehicles have minimal crumple zones on the sides. The door and B-pillar provide much less protection than the front and rear of the vehicle.
Direct Impact to Passenger Compartment: The force of a T-bone crash often hits the passenger compartment directly, increasing the risk of serious injury to occupants.
Greater Risk of Rollover: The T-bone nature of the impact can cause vehicles to roll over, especially SUVs and trucks with higher centers of gravity.
Injuries in Houston T-Bone Accidents
Side-impact crashes often result in serious injuries:
Head and Brain Injuries: The sudden side motion can cause traumatic brain injuries even with airbag deployment.
Chest and Torso Trauma: The side of the vehicle can collapse inward, causing serious injuries to the chest, ribs and internal organs.
Spinal Cord Injuries: The rotational force of a T-bone crash can cause severe spinal injuries and paralysis.
Broken Bones: Side-impact crashes often cause fractures, especially to the pelvis, ribs and extremities on the impact side.
Medical Impact and Injury Analysis
According to Houston Methodist Hospital’s Trauma Center, T-bone crashes result in:
Severe Injuries (Frequency Rates)
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (37%)
- Thoracic Trauma (42%)
- Spinal Cord Injuries (28%)
- Pelvic Fractures (31%)
- Internal Organ Damage (39%)
Long-Term Health Consequences
UTMB studies show:
- Average recovery time: 8.3 months
- Chronic pain conditions: 64% of victims
- PTSD: 41% of cases
- Permanent mobility limitations: 28% of severe cases
Legal Rights and Compensation in Texas
Under Texas law, accident victims have certain rights to compensation. The Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code allows victims to recover for:
Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to the accident.
Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional trauma.
Property Damage: Cost of vehicle repair or replacement.
Texas is a modified comparative negligence state, meaning victims can recover as long as they are not more than 51% at fault in the crash.
What to Do After a Houston T-Bone Crash
- Get Medical Care Right Away: Even if injuries seem minor, get medical attention. Houston has many trauma centers that specialize in accident injuries.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures of vehicle positions, damage and the intersection where the crash occurred.
- Get Info: Get contact and insurance info from all parties and witnesses.
- File a Report: File a police report with the Houston Police Department or the relevant law enforcement agency.
- Call Your Insurance Company: Report the crash but don’t give recorded statements before talking to an attorney.
How to Avoid T-Bone Crashes in Houston
Defensive Driving: Always approach intersections with caution, even with a green light.
Vehicle Safety Features: Newer vehicles with side-impact airbags and reinforced door beams are safer.
Intersection Awareness: Be extra aware at Houston’s high-crash intersections, especially during rush hour.
Weather: Be more cautious during Houston’s frequent rain and severe weather.
Texas Time Limits
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims from auto accidents. That means you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit to preserve your rights to recovery.
Why Act Fast
Prompt legal action after a T-bone crash is key. Evidence disappears quickly, witnesses forget, and insurance companies start building their case immediately. Talking to a Houston lawyer soon after a side-impact crash helps protect your rights and get you more money.
Remember, each T-bone accident case in Houston is unique, and the specific circumstances will determine the best legal approach. If you’ve been involved in a side-impact collision, seeking professional legal guidance can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
How The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja Can Help
Our Houston car accident lawyers will:
Investigate the Crash: Get evidence, interview witnesses and work with accident reconstruction experts.
Deal with Insurance Companies: Negotiate with insurers to get fair compensation.
Calculate Damages: Determine current and future losses from the crash.
Represent Your Interests: Advocate for you in settlement negotiations or court.
Client Testimonial
“After a hit-and-run accident, I was unsure where to turn. Attorney Omar not only helped me understand my rights but also secured a settlement that covered my medical bills and car repairs. Highly recommended!” — Lana