Tennessee is a fault-based state when it comes to recovering compensation for injuries in car accidents. That means it is necessary for the injured party to prove another party was to blame. Determining fault often hinges on analyzing the damage to the vehicles involved. This analysis can provide critical clues about the dynamics of the collision and help establish which driver was primarily at fault. 

The location and severity of vehicle damage varies with different types of accidents, which can tell a story of how the crash occurred. The following are the most common:

  • Rear-End Accidents — When one vehicle strikes another from behind, the damage is usually concentrated on the rear bumper of the front vehicle and the front bumper of the rear vehicle. The severity of the damage can also provide insights — extensive front-end damage to the rear car suggests a high-speed impact, indicating a dangerous speed and/or a significant failure to maintain a safe following distance.

  • T-Bone Accidents — These collisions occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. They often happen at intersections and are usually caused by a driver running a red light or stop sign, or otherwise failing to yield the right-of-way. Damage is typically found on the side panels, doors, and possibly the frame of the impacted vehicle, while the front end of the striking vehicle sustains corresponding damage. The location of the damage can indicate which car had the right-of-way and which car failed to observe traffic signals or signs.

  • Left-Turn Accidents — These collisions are common at intersections where a driver making a left turn collides with an oncoming vehicle. In these situations, the driver turning left is usually at fault for failing to yield to oncoming traffic. Damage patterns typically include severe front-end damage to both vehicles, and often the passenger side of the turning vehicle.  The extent and location of the damage help determine the angle of the collision and which vehicle was in the intersection improperly.

  • Side-Swipe Accidents — These occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction make contact with each other, such as during lane changes or merges when one driver fails to check their blind spot or misjudges the space. Damage in side-swipe accidents is usually found on the sides of both vehicles, running from the front fender to the rear bumper. The relative positions and the direction of the scrape marks can indicate which vehicle moved into the other's lane.

By carefully examining the damage patterns and considering the context of each type of accident, a skilled automobile accident attorney can piece together how the crash occurred and which driver was likely at fault. This bears on the amount of compensation that can be obtained.

At Massengill, Caldwell & Coughlin, P.C. in Bristol, Tennessee, we represent victims of car accidents throughout the Tri-Cities Tennessee/Virginia area. We are prepared to assert your right to just compensation. Call us at 423-797-6022 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.