Who’s at Fault for a T-Bone Accident in Virginia?

 Posted on January 06, 2026 in Car & Truck Accidents

T-bone accidents, sometimes called side-impact collisions, are some of the most dangerous crashes on Virginia roads. Fault often depends on who failed to yield the right of way at an intersection. As of 2026, Virginia law still requires drivers to follow strict right-of-way rules, and violations frequently lead to serious injuries.

In the first half of 2025, an estimated 17,140 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Intersection crashes are major contributors to these numbers. If you were injured in a side-impact crash, our Fairfax, VA t-bone accident lawyers can help you build your claim and fight for compensation.

What Is a Side-Impact Accident?

A T-bone accident occurs when one vehicle crashes into the side of another rather than hitting it from the front or rear. These side-impact collisions most often happen at intersections or when a driver pulls out from a driveway or parking lot.

Side-impact crashes are especially dangerous because doors and side panels provide less protection than the front or rear of a vehicle. Injuries often include broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and internal organ damage.

Who Is Usually at Fault for a T-Bone Accident?

Fault in a T-bone accident case usually comes down to the rules of right-of-way found under Virginia Code § 46.2-825. In most cases, the driver who failed to yield is responsible. Common situations that lead to fault include:

• Running a stop sign or red light

• Failing to yield while making a left turn

• Entering an intersection too early

• Pulling out from a side road or driveway without checking traffic

• Ignoring yield signs or traffic signals

Drivers facing a red light or stop sign are to remain stopped until it is safe to proceed. When a driver ignores that rule and causes a side-impact crash, they are often found at fault.

What Happens if Both Drivers Are at Fault for a T-Bone Crash in Virginia?

Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which is stricter than most states. Under this rule, if an injured person is found even one percent at fault, they may be barred from recovering compensation.

Because of this, insurance companies often try to shift blame in T-bone cases. They may argue that the injured driver was speeding, distracted, or entered the intersection too soon. This makes early investigation and evidence collection critical.

What Evidence Helps Prove Fault in a T-Bone Accident?

Strong evidence can make a major difference in a Virginia T-bone accident case. Traffic camera or surveillance footage may show how the collision occurred, while police crash reports often document violations and observations made at the scene. Witness statements can help confirm what each driver did just before impact. Vehicle damage patterns, along with skid marks and road conditions, may also help explain speed, direction, and whether a driver tried to stop or avoid the crash.

Taken together, this evidence helps explain how the crash happened and who failed to follow traffic laws. Video footage, damage patterns, and police documentation can show whether a driver ran a red light, failed to yield, or entered the intersection when it was unsafe. Collecting this information early makes it easier to build a clear picture of fault before memories fade or physical evidence disappears.

What Should You Do After a T-Bone Accident?

Taking the right steps after a T-bone crash can protect your health and your claim. Important actions include:

• Calling the police and requesting a crash report

• Seeking medical care right away

• Taking photos of the scene and vehicle damage

• Getting contact information from witnesses

• Avoiding statements to insurance adjusters without guidance

Delays or gaps in treatment can raise questions about injuries. Early documentation helps connect the crash to your injuries.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Prince William County, VA Car Accident Attorneys

Determining fault in a T-bone accident is rarely simple, especially under Virginia’s strict negligence rules. At Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC, our experienced attorneys provide aggressive, personal representation and take on complex cases that other firms often turn away. With more than 120 years of combined experience, our team fights only for cases we are willing to take to court.

We are highly responsive, maintain strong communication, and follow up with clients every step of the way. Call 540-662-4222 to schedule a free consultation with our Fairfax, VA t-bone accident lawyers today and get the answers you need.