Injured in a T-Bone Accident? We Fight for Justice

T-Bone crashes—also known as side-impact or broadside collisions—are among the most dangerous accidents on Los Angeles roads. These crashes often happen when a driver runs a red light, fails to yield, or speeds through an intersection.

With little protection on the sides of most vehicles, even a low-speed T-Bone can cause severe injuries. Victims often suffer from spinal damage, brain injuries, broken bones, or internal trauma.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we understand how fast these accidents unfold—and how long the impact lasts. Our team, led by Attorney Paul Aghabala, brings over two decades of experience and a proven record of winning seven- and eight-figure settlements.

We handle every part of the process—medical coordination, evidence collection, insurance negotiations—so you can focus on healing.

Don’t let the insurance company decide your future. Call now for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win.

Paul Aghabala, Esq.

Founding Attorney

818-788-0808 paul@prestigelaw.com

Why Do T-Bone Accidents Happen?

T-Bone collisions usually happen when one driver fails to yield the right-of-way. In Los Angeles, this often means running a red light, turning without caution, or ignoring a stop sign.

Side-impact crashes aren’t just accidents—they’re almost always the result of preventable ordinary or gross driver negligence.

Common Causes of T-Bone Crashes in Los Angeles:

• Failure to Yield at Intersections
  Especially during unprotected left turns, many drivers misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
  Impatient or distracted drivers may ignore traffic controls, triggering dangerous cross-traffic collisions.
• Distracted Driving
  Using a phone, GPS, or even eating behind the wheel limits awareness and reaction time.
• Speeding to “Beat the Light”
  Drivers trying to rush through intersections often miscalculate timing and visibility.
• Driving Under the Influence
  Alcohol and drugs impair judgement and delay reactions—deadly in intersection crashes.
• Fatigued Driving
  Sleepy drivers may drift through stop signs or fail to notice cross traffic.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance
  Brake failure, bald tires, or broken lights reduce control and visibility, increasing collision risk.
• Missing or Broken Signals
  Some crashes are due to malfunctioning lights or obstructed signage—conditions that may shift fault to a city or agency.
• No Headlights at Night
  Drivers who forget to turn on lights in low-visibility conditions may not be seen until it’s too late.

Our legal team knows how to dissect these situations. We investigate thoroughly, gather street-level evidence, and hold the at-fault driver—or municipality—accountable.

T-Bone Accident Claims in Los Angeles, California

Side-impact crashes are among the most violent collisions on Los Angeles roads. Proving fault—and recovering damages—depends on understanding the traffic laws that apply at intersections and acting within legal deadlines.

Key California Laws Governing T-Bone Accidents:

➤ Vehicle Code §21800 – Establishes who has the right-of-way at uncontrolled intersections, including T-intersections.

➤ Vehicle Code §21801 – Requires drivers making left or U-turns to yield to oncoming traffic.

➤ Vehicle Code §21453 – Requires a full stop at red lights and permits proceeding only when it’s safe.

➤ Vehicle Code §22450 – Governs stop sign compliance and yielding at cross-traffic intersections.

➤ Vehicle Code §22107 – Regulates safe turning and lane changes with proper signaling.

➤ Vehicle Code §23152 – Prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

➤ Vehicle Code §23123 – Bans handheld device use while driving, a common cause of intersection crashes.

Violations of these codes are often the root cause of a T-Bone collision—and direct proof of driver negligence.

Can You Still Recover Compensation If You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Under California’s pure comparative negligence rule (Civil Code §1431.2), you can recover damages even if you were partly responsible. If you’re found 30% at fault, for example, you could still claim 70% of your total damages.

Deadlines Matter: When to File Your Claim

• Standard Personal Injury Deadline:
  You have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit (Code of Civil Procedure §335.1).
• Claims Involving Government Liability:
  If your crash involved a defective light or missing sign and a government agency is potentially liable, you must file a notice of claim within six months (Government Code §911.2).

Why You Should Never Deal with the Insurance Company Alone

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may push quick settlements, assign blame, or downplay your injuries.

Don’t sign anything until you’ve spoken to an accident lawyer.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we build strong, evidence-backed claims by leveraging California’s traffic laws and civil codes. Our legal team knows how to prove fault—and how to stop lowball tactics in their tracks.

What to Do After a T-Bone Accident in Los Angeles

The steps you take after a side-impact collision can directly affect your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation. Acting quickly and correctly helps protect both your health and your legal rights.

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

Always report the crash to the police, even if injuries seem minor. An official collision report will be crucial later on.

2. Prioritize Safety, But Preserve the Scene

Move yourself to safety if needed. If possible, avoid moving the vehicles until the police arrive—especially if fault is contested.

3. Exchange Information

Collect names, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and contact information from everyone involved.

4. Document the Scene

Take clear photos of the vehicle positions, damage, traffic signs, license plates, and visible injuries. If witnesses are present, get their full contact details.

5. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Some injuries may take hours or days to appear. Get evaluated at a hospital or urgent care, even if you feel fine.

6. Don’t Admit Fault

Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting responsibility. Let the evidence speak for itself.

7. Contact a T-Bone Accident Lawyer

Speak to a qualified personal injury lawyer before you talk to any insurance adjuster. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we offer free consultations and can help you coordinate medical care, file insurance paperwork, and begin building your claim right away.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a T-Bone Accident?

Liability in a T-Bone collision isn’t always clear-cut. While one driver’s error often causes the crash, other parties—like government agencies, manufacturers, or employers—may also be responsible.

The Negligent Driver

Most T-Bone accidents are caused by drivers who run red lights, fail to yield, speed, or drive distracted. If a driver violated California traffic laws, they are typically held primarily liable.

Vehicle Manufacturers

If airbags failed to deploy or structural defects worsened the impact, the vehicle manufacturer may share fault. Product liabilityclaims can arise from:

• Faulty airbags or crash sensors
• Defective braking systems
• Poor side-impact protection design

Government Entities

Poor intersection design, missing signage, or malfunctioning traffic lights can shift liability to a city or county. These cases follow strict rules, including a six-month deadline under Government Code §911.2.

Third Parties

Other parties may also be responsible, including:

• Employers (if the driver was on the job)
• Construction companies that blocked signage
• Maintenance shops that performed faulty repairs
• Contractors who failed to fix traffic signals

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we investigate every detail to identify all liable parties. This broad strategy ensures no responsible party escapes accountability—and helps maximize your compensation.

Common Injuries and Damages in T-Bone Accident Cases

Side-impact collisions frequently lead to serious, lasting injuries and can even result in wrongful death. With limited protection between the door and the striking vehicle, T-Bone crashes can cause significant physical trauma—especially when side-curtain airbags fail or the car’s structure absorbs the full force.

Common Injuries from T-Bone Accidents

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Caused by sudden impact or jarring motion, TBIs can lead to cognitive dysfunction, memory loss, or long-term disability.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can cause chronic pain, limited mobility, or paralysis.
• Fractures: Broken ribs, hips, arms, or legs are common due to the concentrated side impact.
• Whiplash and Neck Strain: The force of the crash can cause violent neck movement, leading to soft tissue injuries and lingering pain.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately visible but can become life-threatening without treatment.

These injuries often require emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and months—or even years—of recovery.

Types of Damages You May Be Entitled To

Victims of T-Bone crashes in California can pursue both economic and non-economic damages:

• Medical Expenses: Covers ER visits, imaging, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost while recovering, including potential future losses.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property inside.
• Pain and Suffering: Accounts for the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When injuries interfere with your ability to work, socialize, or participate in activities you once enjoyed.
• Loss of Consortium: For spouses and partners affected by the changes in relationship dynamics after a catastrophic injury.

Severe cases—especially those involving TBI or paralysis—may justify higher compensation due to lifelong impact.

What Factors Impact T-Bone Car Accident Settlements?

Every T-bone accident is different. Your settlement isn’t determined solely by the crash itself—but by how that crash has affected your life, health, and ability to earn a living.

Several factors influence the total value of your settlement:

Severity of Injury

The more serious your injuries, the higher your potential compensation. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and multiple fractures usually lead to larger settlements due to their lasting impact.

Medical Costs

All accident-related expenses matter: ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical needs. We gather thorough documentation to ensure nothing is left out.

Lost Income

If you missed work or had to take a lower-paying job because of your injuries, you may be entitled to recover past wages and future lost earning capacity.

Property Damage

From smashed vehicles to damaged electronics, all property losses should be accounted for in your claim. This includes repairs, replacements, and rental costs.

Pain and Suffering

California law recognizes that your losses go beyond the financial. Chronic pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are factored into non-economic damages.

Comparative Fault

Even if you were partially at fault, California’s pure comparative negligence system allows you to recover damages—though your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Insurance Coverage Limits

Sometimes the other driver’s policy caps what can be paid. We identify all available sources of coverage—including your own underinsured motorist policy—to maximize your recovery.

Quality of Evidence

Well-documented medical records, police reports, eyewitness testimony, and traffic camera footage can all strengthen your case.Our legal team works quickly to preserve and present the strongest evidence.

Want to know what your case could be worth? Contact Prestige Law Firm P.C. today for a free, personalized evaluation.

How Our T-Bone Accident Lawyers Can Help You

After a T-bone accident, you need more than medical care—you need a legal team that understands how to fight back against insurance companies and protect your rights from day one.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we take care of everything so you can focus on recovery.

Free Consultation and Case Review

We start with a no-obligation consultation to assess your case, explain your legal options, and answer your questions clearly—no pressure, just honest guidance.

Accident Investigation

Our team gathers and preserves the critical evidence that will make your case:

• Police crash reports
• Eyewitness statements
• Traffic camera footage
• Black box vehicle data
• Expert accident reconstruction

We act fast to secure this evidence before it’s lost or overwritten.

Medical Coordination

We connect you with top doctors, specialists, and rehab providers—even if you don’t have insurance. Many work on a lien basis, so you won’t pay anything out of pocket upfront.

Aggressive Insurance Negotiation

Insurance companies are trained to protect their bottom line. We’re trained to beat them at their own game.

With former insurance defense counsel and adjusters on our team, we anticipate their tactics and push for full, fair compensation—never a rushed or lowball settlement.

Trial Readiness and Litigation

If the insurer won’t play fair, we’re ready to go to court. Every case is prepared as if it will go to trial. Attorney Paul Aghabala is an experienced litigator who knows how to present strong arguments before a judge and jury.

From investigation to negotiation—and litigation if needed—we handle every detail with care, speed, and strategy. You’ll never be in the dark or on your own.

Contact us now to begin your recovery with a trusted T-bone accident lawyer by your side. Consultations are free, and there’s no fee unless we win.

Why Choose Prestige Law Firm P.C. for Your T-Bone Accident Case?

After a side-impact crash, choosing the right legal team can make the difference between a low settlement and a full financial recovery. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we don’t just handle cases—we build them for trial and fight to win.

Here’s why clients across Los Angeles trust us after a T-bone accident:

We’re Litigators, Not Just Negotiators

While many firms push quick settlements, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives you real leverage—whether we’re negotiating or presenting before a jury.

Direct Access to Your Attorney

You’ll never be passed off to case managers. You’ll work directly with Attorney Paul Aghabala, who personally oversees each case and stays in touch throughout your legal journey.

Proven Results in High-Stakes Cases

We’ve secured millions for injury victims, including seven- and eight-figure verdicts in cases involving catastrophic trauma. No case is too complex.

We Know How Insurers Think—And How to Beat Them

With a background in insurance defense and former claims adjusters on our team, we understand the inner workings of insurance companies. That gives us a major advantage when pushing back against delay tactics and lowball offers.

We Handle Tough Cases Other Firms Avoid

Even if your case involves partial fault, missing traffic signage, or disputes over speed and visibility, we take it on—and win.

Community-Focused, Client-Driven

We’re more than a law firm. We’re part of the community—supporting veterans, foster children, and local causes across LA. You’re not just a case file—you’re a neighbour, and we fight like it.

No Recovery, No Fee

There’s no risk to start. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Get the Legal Help You Deserve After a T-Bone Accident

A side-impact collision can turn your life upside down—physically, financially, and emotionally. You shouldn’t have to fight insurance companies or worry about bills while recovering.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we take over the legal burden so you can focus on healing. With over 20 years of experience helping T-bone accident victims across Los Angeles, Van Nuys, and Palmdale, we know how to win full and fair compensation.

Here’s what you can expect when you contact us:

• A free consultation with a skilled attorney—no assistants, no scripts.
• No upfront fees and no cost unless we win your case.
• Access to trusted doctors and specialists, even if you don’t have insurance.
• Help with property damage, rental cars, and paperwork.
• Experienced trial lawyers ready to fight in court if needed.

Don’t wait. Insurance companies move fast—and so should you. Call (818) 788-0808 or (661) 341-3939 now, or message us on WhatsApp for 24/7 response.

Let Prestige Law Firm P.C. help you take the first step toward recovery—and justice.

Paul Aghabala

Founding Member

Written by Paul Aghabala, Reviewed by Todd Greenberg, J.D.