A T-bone accident — also known as a side-impact collision — happens when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. When the vehicle being hit is a motorcycle, the consequences are often severe. Riders are highly exposed from the sides, with no frame, doors, or airbags to absorb the impact. The result is often catastrophic injury or death.
These types of accidents are common at intersections throughout Texas, particularly in busy urban areas like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, where drivers often rush through yellow lights or misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic.
How T-Bone Motorcycle Crashes Happen
Most T-bone accidents involving motorcycles occur in intersections. A typical scenario involves one driver ignoring a traffic control device — running a red light, failing to stop at a stop sign, or turning improperly across traffic.
Examples of situations that lead to T-bone crashes include:
- A car turning left across the rider’s path
- A driver running a red light and striking a motorcycle crossing legally
- A motorcycle being hit while turning across traffic with an obstructed view
- Drivers entering intersections too aggressively or without checking both directions
In many cases, the driver who caused the crash claims they “didn’t see” the motorcycle — a dangerous admission that reflects a lack of awareness, not an excuse.
Injuries Common in Side-Impact Motorcycle Collisions
Because motorcycles offer no structural barrier on either side, T-bone accidents are particularly dangerous for riders. Injuries are often extensive and may include:
- Fractures to the pelvis, ribs, or limbs
- Traumatic brain injuries (with or without a helmet)
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Spinal injuries, including paralysis
- Lacerations and road rash from being thrown from the bike
These types of crashes frequently result in long-term disability or fatalities, especially at moderate to high speeds.
Determining Fault in a T-Bone Accident
Liability in a side-impact crash depends on who had the right of way and who failed to yield or follow traffic signals. Often, fault lies with the driver who entered the intersection illegally or failed to stop when required.
That said, insurance companies may dispute liability by falsely suggesting:
- The motorcycle was speeding
- The rider made an unsafe or unexpected maneuver
- Visibility was limited due to weather or lighting
- The motorcycle entered the intersection too late in a signal cycle
To establish fault, evidence like traffic camera footage, skid marks, witness statements, and police reports can be critical.
Legal Claims After a T-Bone Motorcycle Crash
Victims of side-impact motorcycle crashes may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Wrongful death, in the event of a fatality
The strength of a legal claim often depends on how quickly evidence is gathered and preserved after the crash.
Spagnoletti Law Firm Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a side-impact motorcycle accident, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options. T-bone collisions are often complex, and securing fair compensation may require a detailed investigation into the cause and contributing factors.
Spagnoletti Law Firm assists individuals and families across Texas in pursuing personal injury claims after serious crashes. Our team is available to review your case and help you explore next steps.
📞 Call 713-804-9306 for a free consultation. There are no fees unless compensation is recovered in your case.