T-Bone Collisions Are Among Sioux Falls’ Most Dangerous Accidents
A T-bone accident — also called a side-impact collision — happens when one vehicle strikes another directly in the side, forming a “T” shape. These crashes often occur at busy Sioux Falls intersections such as 41st Street & Louise Avenue, Minnesota Ave & 33rd Street, or 10th Street & Cliff Avenue.
Because the side of a vehicle offers little protection, T-bone impacts often cause serious injuries or fatalities. At Northern Plains Justice, our Sioux Falls car accident lawyers help victims hold negligent drivers accountable and recover fair compensation for their losses.
Why T-Bone Crashes Happen in South Dakota
Side-impact collisions usually result from failure to yield, running red lights, or distracted driving. Common causes include:
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Ignoring traffic lights or stop signs
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Turning left without yielding to oncoming traffic
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Speeding through yellow lights
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Distracted or impaired driving
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Confusion at multi-lane intersections
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Misjudging another driver’s speed on I-29 or I-90 exits
Many crashes happen when drivers rush through intersections at the last second — a split-second mistake that can permanently change someone’s life.
Common Injuries from T-Bone Accidents
Side impacts expose occupants to direct contact with the striking vehicle, often leading to severe trauma such as:
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
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Broken ribs, pelvis, or collarbone
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Internal bleeding or organ damage
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Whiplash and soft-tissue strains
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Facial injuries from shattered glass or airbags
Even with side airbags, the impact force in a T-bone crash can exceed several tons, causing long-term or disabling conditions.
Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Collision?
Fault depends on who violated the right-of-way. In most cases, the driver who ran a red light, failed to stop, or turned without yielding is responsible.
Our Sioux Falls accident attorneys investigate by:
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Reviewing police and crash reports
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Obtaining traffic-camera and intersection-signal data
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Interviewing witnesses
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Examining vehicle damage patterns
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Downloading black-box (EDR) speed and braking data
Under South Dakota’s “slight versus gross” negligence rule, you may still recover compensation if your fault is only slight. Our Sioux Falls car accident lawyers work to prove the other driver’s negligence and maximize your recovery.
What to Do After a Side-Impact Collision
- Call 911 and request police and medical response.
- Get medical care immediately — some injuries appear hours later.
- Photograph the vehicles, traffic lights, and intersection.
- Exchange information with drivers and witnesses.
- Avoid giving statements to insurers before speaking with your lawyer.
Evidence like skid marks, light timing, and surveillance footage can disappear fast — a prompt investigation is key to success.
Why Choose Northern Plains Justice
Our Sioux Falls injury attorneys have decades of experience handling intersection and side-impact crashes across Minnehaha, Lincoln, and surrounding counties.
We provide:
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Free consultations and no fees unless we win
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Local insight into Sioux Falls intersections and traffic flow
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Access to accident-reconstruction experts
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Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
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Trial-ready representation when necessary
We handle the legal fight — you focus on your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is usually at fault in a T-bone accident?
Typically, the driver who failed to yield or ran a light bears responsibility, but each crash must be investigated individually.
Can both drivers share fault?
Yes. If both contributed to the collision, South Dakota’s comparative negligence rule applies. You can still recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault.
Are T-bone crashes worse than rear-end accidents?
Yes. Side-impact collisions transfer more force directly to occupants, increasing the risk of severe injury.
Do I need an attorney for a side-impact crash?
Absolutely. Insurers often dispute fault in intersection cases. A lawyer ensures your claim covers all medical and financial losses.
Contact a Sioux Falls T-Bone Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one were injured in a T-bone crash in Sioux Falls or anywhere in South Dakota, let Northern Plains Justice fight for you.
Call (605) 306-4100 or reach out online for a free consultation.
We’ll investigate the crash, prove who was at fault, and demand the compensation you deserve.
