At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we know how devastating side-impact car accidents can be. Also known as T-bone collisions, these crashes often result in severe injuries and overwhelming financial burdens.
As a trusted and experienced St. Cloud car accident lawyer, we are committed to providing the legal support and advocacy you need during this challenging time. Our team works tirelessly to ensure victims secure compensation to recover from medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional toll these accidents bring.
What Are Side Impact Car Accidents?
Side-impact or T-bone accidents occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape upon impact. These crashes often happen at intersections, where drivers may fail to yield or run red lights.
In Minnesota, intersections are high-risk zones—over 59% of St. Cloud’s traffic accidents in 2022 occurred at intersections, leading to multiple injuries and fatalities.
Major roads such as MN-15 and Division Street in St. Cloud are known for heavy congestion, which increases the likelihood of accidents. With high traffic volumes, drivers are more prone to reckless behaviors like speeding, tailgating, and distracted driving, making these roads some of the most dangerous in the city.
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Common Causes of Side Impact Car Accidents
Understanding the causes of side-impact collisions can help victims seek appropriate compensation. Here are some of the leading contributors:
- Failure to yield at intersections: Drivers running red lights or stop signs frequently cause T-bone accidents.
- Distracted driving: Texting, phone use, or other distractions can prevent drivers from noticing traffic signals.
- Speeding: Excessive speed increases the impact force, making injuries more severe.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, contributing to intersection-related crashes..
These factors highlight the importance of safe driving habits and awareness, especially on St. Cloud’s busiest roads.
Types of Injuries in Side Impact Accidents
Side-impact collisions can cause devastating injuries due to the limited protection vehicles offer on their sides.
Some common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with airbags, head trauma is common in T-bone crashes.
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Impact from the side can result in damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
- Fractured ribs and internal injuries: The force of impact can break bones and damage internal organs.
- Whiplash and neck injuries: Sudden jerking movements during the crash often result in whiplash injuries.
The aftermath of these injuries can involve long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and financial stress for victims and their families.
The Legal Path to Compensation
Navigating Minnesota’s legal system after a car accident can be overwhelming. Minnesota follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that your insurance will cover basic expenses like medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault.
However, in cases involving severe injuries (such as cases where a death is involved, there is over $4,000 in medical expenses, there is a permanent injury, 60 days of disability, or a scar), victims may pursue additional compensation by filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. Through this claim, you will be able to recover any past and future medical expenses and wage loss that was not covered by the no-fault claim, and any past and future pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
Additionally, Minnesota operates under a comparative fault rule. This rule means that even if you were partially responsible for the accident, you can still recover compensation—though your percentage of fault will reduce your damages. For example, if you were found 20% at fault and your total damages amounted to $100,000, you would receive $80,000 in compensation. However, if your fault exceeds 50%, you will be unable to recover any damages.
Our experienced car wreck attorneys in St. Cloud are well-versed in these legal intricacies. We will help you build a solid case by gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Our Approach to Handling Your Case
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we take a comprehensive approach to ensure your case is handled effectively from start to finish.
Here’s how we can help:
- Thorough Investigation: We will collect evidence, including police reports, eyewitness accounts, and traffic camera footage, to build a strong case.
- Working with Medical Experts: We consult with healthcare providers to document the full extent of your injuries and future care needs.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Our team handles communication with insurance companies to prevent you from being pressured into accepting lowball settlements.
- Aggressive Litigation When Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight on your behalf for maximum compensation.
We aim to alleviate your legal burdens so you can focus on recovery.
Minnesota Traffic Safety and Side-Impact Accidents
Traffic safety is a top priority in Minnesota, with programs like Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) aiming to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Despite these efforts, car accidents remain a significant concern. In 2021 alone, Minnesota recorded 63,751 car accidents, resulting in 488 deaths and 24,083 injuries.
In St. Cloud specifically, 460 traffic accidents were reported in 2022, causing 231 injuries and five fatalities. Side-impact accidents, in particular, contribute significantly to these numbers, as they often occur at high speeds and leave occupants vulnerable to severe injuries.
What Compensation Can You Expect?
Victims of side-impact accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
- Lost wages: Compensation for time missed at work and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement.
Our role as your trusted auto accident attorney in St. Cloud is to ensure that every aspect of your damages is accounted for in your claim.
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Why Choose Nelson Personal Injury, LLC?
As a top-rated side-impact car accident lawyer in St. Cloud, we have the experience and dedication to handle even the most complex cases. Our team is known for personalized service, attention to detail, and relentless advocacy.
We understand the emotional and financial toll these accidents take, and we are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
We are proud to offer free case evaluations. During these evaluations, we will review the details of your accident, explain your legal options, and answer any questions you may have. There are no upfront costs; we only get paid if we win your case.
Contact Us Today
If you’re searching for a reliable car accident attorney near me, look no further than Nelson Personal Injury, LLC. Whether your case requires skillful negotiation or aggressive litigation, we are ready to fight for your rights.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you need to move forward.
