A T-bone crash can leave you dealing with injuries, medical bills, repair costs and missed work while you are still trying to understand what happened. At a busy Dallas intersection, fault may not be obvious. The driver who strikes the side of another vehicle is not automatically responsible for causing the collision.
How can right-of-way rules affect fault?
Texas law sets right-of-way rules for traffic lights, left turns, stop signs and yield signs. A driver may contribute to a T-bone crash by:
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to yield to oncoming traffic while turning left
- Speeding or driving while distracted
Evidence that a driver violated one of these traffic rules may help establish how that driver contributed to the collision. You may also share responsibility if your actions contributed to the circumstances surrounding the crash. Under Texas law, you cannot recover compensation if you are more than 50% responsible for the crash.
What evidence can help show what happened?
Because drivers may provide conflicting accounts of the same collision, physical and digital evidence can help clarify who had the right of way. Useful records may include:
- Traffic camera or dashcam footage
- Witness statements
- Photos of the vehicles and intersection
- Police reports
- Vehicle event data recorder information, such as speed or braking data, if available
- Vehicle damage and crash reconstruction findings
Keeping medical records, repair estimates and documentation of missed work may also help demonstrate the financial and personal effects of the crash.
Understanding fault after a Dallas T-bone crash
Questions about fault can become frustrating when drivers give different accounts or insurers dispute responsibility. Detailed evidence can help establish what happened and how Texas fault rules may apply to your circumstances. A car accident attorney can evaluate the available evidence, communicate with insurers and explain your options so you can make informed decisions about your claim.