A T-bone crash can change your life in seconds. One moment you're crossing an intersection in Portsmouth, the next you're jolted sideways, unsure what just happened. These side-impact crashes are among the most dangerous—and most complicated when it comes to injury claims. If you or someone you love has been hit in this way, you need to understand what happens next and how to protect yourself legally and financially.
Avoid admitting fault. T-bone crashes often happen when one driver runs a red light or fails to yield. Even if you think you may have done something wrong, now isn’t the time to say that aloud. Let investigators and your attorney determine fault based on the facts.
After the initial shock wears off, you may get calls from insurance companies. Be cautious. Their goal is to settle fast, for as little as possible. Don’t accept any settlement or sign any documents until you understand the full extent of your injuries and your legal options. For a step-by-step breakdown of what to do after any crash, read this guide on how to protect your rights right after impact.
In a T-bone crash, the side of your car absorbs the full force of the impact. There’s little protection between your body and the oncoming vehicle. We recently helped a client who suffered a torn rotator cuff after a T-bone crash in a New Hampshire intersection—she required surgery and received a $100,000 settlement at policy limits. That often results in serious and sometimes long-lasting injuries.
These injuries can lead to time away from work, expensive medical bills, and major disruptions to your life. A fair legal claim should account for all of this—not just your immediate medical expenses. That’s why it’s critical to have someone on your side who can document your damages properly and push back if the insurance company tries to undervalue your claim. To understand why timing matters so much, see why immediate medical care is critical after any car crash.
That includes situations where the other driver:
In most T-bone crashes, determining fault hinges on who had the right of way.
Your attorney will likely gather evidence like:
If you’re found partially at fault, don’t panic. New Hampshire follows a modified comparative fault rule. That means you can still recover compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. However, your final settlement will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and the total damages are $100,000, you would be eligible for $80,000.
Time is a factor. You typically have three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit in New Hampshire, but the sooner you start, the better your chances of building a strong case.
T-bone crashes often lead to life-changing injuries and complex insurance disputes. Learn how our team approaches auto accident claims and helps clients recover faster.
At Buckley Law Offices, we help people in Portsmouth and across New Hampshire navigate the legal process and fight for the full compensation they deserve. You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest. Call us right now to schedule your free consultation. Learn more about our work on car crash cases throughout New Hampshire and how we fight for the compensation you deserve.