What type of collisions are a common cause of fatalities?

T-bone or lateral side impact collisions are often particularly dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or fatalities for several reasons. In these types of accidents, one vehicle collides with the side of another at a perpendicular angle, often towards the passenger compartment where there is less protection compared to the front or rear of the vehicle. This means that the occupants of the struck vehicle may not have the structural reinforcements provided by the front or rear crumple zones.

Additionally, because these collisions can occur at intersections, they are often at higher speeds, increasing the potential for serious outcomes. The impact often affects the torso and head of the passengers on the side that is struck, making it difficult for seatbelts to provide adequate protection. Given these factors, T-bone collisions are recognized as a significant contributor to fatalities in car accidents, especially in areas with higher traffic density where such intersections are common.