T-Boned at an Intersection? Here’s What You Need to Know About Fault in Florida.

Intersection crashes happen in seconds—but their impact can last for months, even years. Being T-boned, or struck on the side by another vehicle, is one of the most dangerous types of car accidents. And while the cause may seem obvious at first, the issue of fault under Florida law is often more complicated than it appears.

At Pezon Law, we help clients across South Florida understand how fault is determined in side-impact crashes—and how to protect their right to compensation when the facts are anything but simple. Because it’s not just about who hit who—it’s about what can be proved, what the law says, and who’s helping you move forward with confidence.

What Causes T-Bone Accidents?

Most side-impact collisions happen when:

  • A driver runs a red light or stop sign

  • Someone fails to yield when turning left

  • A driver speeds through a yellow light without checking cross traffic

  • There’s confusion over right-of-way at a four-way stop

  • A distracted driver doesn’t realize they’re entering a live intersection

In many of these cases, one car had the right to proceed—and the other didn’t. But proving that is where things get complicated.

How Fault Is Determined in Florida

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. That means:

  • Each driver’s percentage of fault is evaluated based on the evidence

  • You can only recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault

  • If you were partially at fault, your compensation is reduced accordingly

So even if you were injured in a T-bone accident, the other party (or their insurer) may try to argue that you shared the blame—especially if you were speeding, distracted, or didn’t yield when required.

This is why documentation and legal guidance are critical from the beginning.

Evidence That Can Prove Fault in a T-Bone Crash

To determine fault, we gather and analyze:

  • Traffic light data (timing reports from intersections)

  • Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras

  • Vehicle damage analysis (angle and severity of impact)

  • Eyewitness accounts

  • Police reports and citations

  • Black box (EDR) data if available from the vehicles

At Pezon Law, we dig into the details that matter—not just what happened, but how to prove what should have happened under the law.

T-Bone Accidents Often Mean Serious Injuries:

Because the side of a car offers far less protection than the front or rear, T-bone accidents often result in:

  • Neck and back injuries

  • Broken ribs or limbs

  • Head trauma or concussions

  • Internal injuries

  • Long-term pain and reduced mobility

Medical bills, lost income, and recovery time can add up fast—and insurance companies may try to offer a quick (and low) settlement. Don’t sign or agree to anything before getting legal advice.

Get Counsel That Puts You in Control

At Pezon Law, we don’t just tell clients what to do—we explain why the law works the way it does, and what your best path forward looks like. Our job is to give you the honest answers you need to make the decisions that are right for you.

We’ll help you:

  • Understand your rights and obligations

  • Handle communication with insurance companies

  • Build a strong claim with supporting evidence

  • Seek the compensation you’re legally entitled to

Injured in a T-Bone Crash? The First Step Is Honest Legal Guidance.

Being struck in an intersection is scary—and what happens next can feel just as overwhelming. At Pezon Law, we help you regain control, get answers, and move toward resolution with clarity and confidence.

📞 Contact Pezon Law today! You don’t have to figure it all out alone—we’re here to guide you, every step of the way.

Next
Next

Rear-Ended in Florida? Why Fault Isn’t Always Clear-Cut.