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A split second at an intersection can change your life forever. T-bone collisions — also known as side-impact crashes — are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, often leaving victims with devastating injuries, destroyed vehicles, and long, difficult recoveries.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick (LSM), our attorneys have spent more than 25 years representing car accident victims across Metro Detroit, fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. We’ve seen firsthand how quickly an intersection accident can turn an ordinary day into a life-altering event, and we’ve helped countless clients rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence.
A T-bone accident occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes directly into the side of another — forming the “T” shape that gives these collisions their name. Because there’s far less structural protection on the sides of most vehicles, the impact can be catastrophic, often causing severe injuries, extensive property damage, and long-term physical and emotional challenges.
As a community-rooted law firm, we provide the personal attention of a small practice with the power and experience of a seasoned legal team. Every client gets the full strength of our attorneys, paralegals, and staff working together to uncover the truth and deliver results.
Determining Fault in Intersection Accidents
Determining who is at fault in a T-bone or intersection crash isn’t always straightforward. Intersections are complex environments — multiple vehicles, pedestrians, signals, and split-second decisions can all play a role. In Metro Detroit’s busy roadways, confusion about right-of-way or distracted driving can quickly lead to disaster.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick (LSM), we understand that insurance companies often rush to assign blame or downplay their driver’s responsibility. That’s why we take the time to fully investigate every detail of your accident, building a strong and evidence-based case that clearly establishes who was at fault and why.
How LSM Proves Fault in Intersection Collisions
Our attorneys use a proven process to uncover the truth and hold negligent drivers accountable. This includes:
- Reviewing Police and Crash Reports
We obtain official accident reports and analyze them for inconsistencies or evidence that supports your claim. - Collecting Surveillance and Dashcam Footage
Many intersections in Metro Detroit are equipped with cameras, and nearby businesses or vehicles may have captured the collision on video. - Interviewing Eyewitnesses
Witness statements provide valuable insight into how the crash occurred and can corroborate your version of events. - Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts
We work with leading experts to recreate the collision and demonstrate fault through scientific evidence such as impact angles, skid marks, and vehicle trajectories. - Examining Cell Phone Records, Traffic Signal Data, and Vehicle Black Boxes
In today’s world, data is key. We review phone activity to identify distracted driving and access vehicle data to understand speed, braking, and other pre-crash behaviors.
Michigan’s Comparative Negligence Law
Michigan follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible, you can still collect 80% of your total damages. However, determining these percentages requires detailed evidence — and that’s where LSM’s experience makes all the difference.
Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System
Michigan’s No-Fault insurance law is designed to ensure that anyone injured in an auto accident can receive certain benefits, regardless of who caused the crash. While this system provides important protections, it’s also complex — and navigating it can be frustrating without legal help. That’s where Liss, Shapero & Mitnick comes in.
What No-Fault (PIP) Benefits Cover
After a T-bone or intersection accident, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits may include:
- Medical Care and Rehabilitation
Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and long-term treatment needs. - Lost Wages
Reimbursement for a portion of income lost while you recover from your injuries. - Replacement Services
Compensation for the cost of hiring help with daily tasks you’re unable to perform — such as cleaning, childcare, or yard work.
When You Can File a Lawsuit
In Michigan, you can step outside the No-Fault system and file a personal injury lawsuit if you’ve suffered a:
- Serious impairment of body function (such as long-term disability or loss of mobility),
- Permanent disfigurement, or
- Death (in cases involving fatal accidents).
These cases allow victims to pursue compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages that No-Fault benefits don’t cover.
Compensation for T-Bone Crash Victims
A T-bone or intersection collision can turn your life upside down in an instant — leaving you with painful injuries, expensive medical bills, and time away from work. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick (LSM), our attorneys fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for everything you’ve lost — not just what insurance companies are willing to offer.
Under Michigan law, victims of serious car accidents may be entitled to recover several forms of damages, depending on the nature and extent of their injuries:
- Medical Expenses
Covers all necessary medical treatment related to your injuries — including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication, physical therapy, and any long-term or future medical needs. - Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working or limit your ability to earn income in the future, you may recover compensation for lost wages and diminished earning potential. - Pain and Suffering
Compensation for physical pain, emotional anguish, and mental distress caused by the accident and its aftermath. - Property Damage
Covers the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the collision. - Loss of Enjoyment of Life
For victims whose injuries prevent them from enjoying activities, hobbies, or time with family as they did before the accident. - Wrongful Death Damages
If a loved one was tragically killed in a T-bone or intersection crash, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and future financial support.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we don’t just measure damages in dollars — we measure them in impact. Our attorneys take the time to understand how your injuries have affected your health, your career, and your quality of life. Then, we fight to make sure the outcome truly reflects what you’ve endured.
We work with trusted medical experts, economists, and life-care planners to calculate the real cost of your recovery, ensuring your settlement or verdict provides long-term security and peace of mind.
What To Do After a T-Bone or Intersection Crash
The moments after a car crash can be chaotic — sirens, confusion, and adrenaline make it hard to think clearly. Yet, the steps you take right after the collision can make a huge difference in protecting your rights and strengthening your claim later.
Here’s what to do if you’ve been involved in a T-bone or intersection accident in Metro Detroit:
- Call 911 and Seek Medical Help Immediately
Safety always comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional right away. Some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. - Report the Accident
Ask the police to come to the scene and file an official crash report. This document will serve as important evidence when proving fault and dealing with insurance claims. - Document the Scene
Take photos or videos of the intersection, vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, traffic lights, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses who saw what happened. - Exchange Information
Collect names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details from all parties involved. Be polite, but avoid discussing fault or making statements about the crash. - Avoid Insurance Statements
Do not provide recorded statements or sign any paperwork from insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney. Their goal is to minimize payouts — not to protect your rights. - Contact Liss, Shapero & Mitnick
Before dealing with insurers or repair shops, call our firm. We’ll handle every aspect of your claim — from evidence collection to medical coordination — while you focus on healing.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we pride ourselves on personal communication and accessibility. When you call, you’ll speak to someone who knows your case — not a call center or automated system. Our attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, protecting your interests and ensuring you never feel alone during your recovery.
Take Control After a T-Bone Collision
A serious T-bone or intersection crash can leave you with lasting pain, mounting medical bills, and endless frustration dealing with insurance adjusters who care more about profits than people. But you don’t have to face it alone.
At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we stand up for Metro Detroit accident victims every day — fighting to hold negligent drivers accountable and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve. With more than 25 years of experience, our attorneys know how to navigate Michigan’s complex insurance laws, prove fault, and recover the full value of your claim.
From the heart of Berkley to the streets of Metro Detroit, our mission remains the same — to protect your rights and help you rebuild after a devastating collision.
Your story matters. Your recovery matters.
Let Liss, Shapero & Mitnick help you take back control and move forward with confidence.
📍 Liss, Shapero & Mitnick
2695 Coolidge Highway
Berkley, MI 48072
📞 Call: 248-584-1300
📞 Toll-Free: 1-855-LISS-LAW (547-7529)
🌐 Visit: www.lsmlawyers.com
💬 Free Consultation – No Fee Unless We Win.