Omaha Side-Impact Accident Attorney

A side-impact accident, often called a T-bone collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another. These accidents are among the most dangerous on the road because the sides of vehicles offer far less structural protection than the front or rear. There is little standing between you and a striking vehicle except a door and a few inches of metal. Injuries in these accidents can include traumatic brain injuries and internal organ trauma, and even low-speed side-impact collisions can produce devastating results.

If you were hurt in a side-impact accident in Omaha or anywhere in Nebraska, Knowles Law Firm is here to help. As a family-owned practice with 55 years of experience, every attorney at our firm is a member of the Knowles family. We answer our own phones, return calls promptly, and give your case the time and attention it deserves. We have obtained multi-million dollar settlements for our clients and are fully prepared to take your case to trial if the responsible insurance company refuses to settle fairly.

What Causes Side-Impact Accidents in Omaha?

To better understand the risks and responsibilities involved in these accidents, it helps to examine how and why side-impact collisions often occur at intersections, where the paths of two vehicles cross. These collisions are typically caused by driver negligence, and understanding the common causes can help identify who is liable.

The most frequent causes of T-bone accidents include:

• Running a red light or stop sign, which violates another driver’s right of way
• Failing to yield during a left turn, where a driver misjudges the speed of an oncoming vehicle
• Distracted driving, such as texting or looking away from the road at an intersection
• Speeding through an intersection, leaving little time to stop or react
• Driving while impaired reduces a driver’s ability to assess traffic signals and cross-traffic

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic fatalities have continued to climb in recent years, with side-impact crashes accounting for a significant portion of serious injuries and deaths nationwide. Any of these behaviors can make the at-fault driver liable for your injuries and losses.

What Injuries Are Common in Omaha Side-Impact Accidents?

In a side impact, occupants are thrown sideways into the door, window, or center console. This force can cause traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and skull fractures. Brain injuries range from mild to severe and may affect a person’s work, communication, and daily functioning for years.

Spinal and Neck Injuries

The whipping motion created by a side-impact collision places enormous strain on the cervical spine. Victims commonly experience herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, and chronic neck pain. Depending on the severity of the impact, spinal injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis.

Chest, Rib, and Internal Injuries

The door and side panels provide minimal force absorption, so the chest and abdomen absorb a significant portion of the impact. Broken ribs, punctured lungs, and damage to internal organs such as the spleen or liver are all possible outcomes. Internal injuries can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after the accident.