A side impact accident in Phoenix left two children and their father injured in March 2019. Side impact crashes present a unique range of risks and are responsible for a significant amount of traffic fatalities in the United States.
WHAT CAUSED THE CRASH
Early on the morning of March 6, a passenger vehicle attempted to make a left turn onto 35th Avenue. A utility truck driving straight on Broadway Road collided with the passenger car. The crash left the passenger car totaled. Rescue crews had to mechanically extricate the driver from the car. The man and his two children—a 7-year-old boy and a 3-year-old girl—were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The driver of the utility truck was not injured in the crash. The busy intersection was closed to allow emergency responders to provide treatment and assess the scene.
TWO VICTIMS LEFT WITH SEVERE INJURIES
The 3-year-old girl involved in the crash was released shortly after admission to the hospital, as she only suffered minor injuries. The father and son fared much worse in the accident. Both required substantial treatment for severe injuries. They remain in critical condition.
TYPES OF SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENTS
There are several types of side impact crashes, also known as T-bone accidents, that occur on roads every day. They can be divided into two main categories.
A far-side accident is generally less dangerous for passengers, although it’s important to remember that all side impact accidents have the potential to cause severe injuries or fatalities. In a far-side crash, occupants are seated on the side opposite the point of impact.
A near-side crash is more likely to result in serious injuries or death. In a near-side crash, occupants are on the same side that was hit during the accident.
RISKS OF SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENTS
Being involved in a side impact accident puts drivers and vehicle occupants at risk of a wide number of injuries, many of which can be serious or even fatal. Potential injuries include:
- Neck injuries, including whiplash and herniated discs
- Traumatic brain injury, including concussion and more serious injuries
- Nerve or spinal cord damage, which may result in paralysis
- Pelvic and abdominal injuries
- Bone fractures
- Soft tissue injuries
- Cuts and other abrasions
Vehicle occupants are in even more danger when they are struck by a larger vehicle. When a large truck or SUV hits the side of a small passenger car—like occurred in this Phoenix crash—those in the smaller vehicle have a much greater risk of severe or fatal injuries.
Side impact accidents happen for a number of reasons, including inattentive driving, impaired drivers, poor signage, and limited visibility on roads. Regardless of the cause of your side impact accident, the costs can quickly become overwhelming. A personal injury case is one way to potentially recoup your costs after a serious car accident.
TURN TO US AFTER YOUR SIDE IMPACT CRASH
If another driver or party caused your side impact crash, you shouldn’t be left with the resulting medical bills, lost income, and other expenses. Call Miller Kory Rowe, LLP at (602) 648-4045 to schedule a consultation. Our Phoenix lawyers are ready to help you.