T-Bone Accident in Florida: Fault, Laws, and What to Do (2026)

# T-Bone Accident in Florida: What You Need to Know

> **KEY FACTS:**
> – Fault depends on who had the **right of way**
> – PIP covers only $10,000 — for serious injuries, you may pursue the at-fault driver’s insurance
> – Florida’s **51% fault bar** applies
> – Statute of limitations: **2 years PI** (reduced from 4), **4 years PD**

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## Fault in Florida T-Bone Collisions

Fault in T-bone accidents turns on **right of way**:

### Common At-Fault Scenarios:
– Running a **red light** or **stop sign**
– Failing to **yield** on a left turn
– Pulling into traffic from a **parking lot or driveway**
– Entering an intersection **against the signal**

### The 51% Bar in T-Bone Cases

Under HB 837’s **modified 51% comparative fault rule**:
– At **50% or less** fault: recover damages, reduced by your %
– At **51% or more** fault: recover **nothing**

**Example:** You are T-boned by a red-light runner. But you were going 15 mph over the speed limit. The insurer argues you were 25% at fault. On $120,000 damages, you recover $90,000.

If they could argue you were 51% at fault (e.g., you also ran the light), you recover nothing.

### What Changed Under HB 837

Before 2023, PIP covered your initial $10,000 in medical bills regardless of fault in a T-bone accident. Now:
– **Limited PIP ($10,000)** — you must prove the other driver’s fault
– **51% bar** — can eliminate your entire claim
– **2-year deadline** — shorter window to act

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## What to Do After a T-Bone Accident in Florida

1. **Check for injuries and call 911** — T-bone injuries are often severe
2. **Do not move** if neck/spine pain
3. **Document the intersection** — signals, signs, camera locations
4. **Get witness information** — signal witnesses are critical
5. **Photograph the scene** thoroughly
6. **Report to FLHSMV** within 10 days if $500+ damage
7. **Seek immediate medical attention** — limited PIP ($10,000) to cover initial costs

For the full checklist: [What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida](/florida/car-accident-guide/)

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## Common T-Bone Injuries

– **Head and brain injuries**
– **Broken ribs and pelvis**
– **Spinal cord injuries**
– **Internal organ damage**
– **Arm and shoulder injuries**
– **Lacerations** from glass

**Because PIP only covers $10,000:** Document injuries from day one. You need to prove the at-fault driver’s liability to recover medical costs.

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## Insurance and Compensation

### Filing Your Claim
– File against the at-fault driver’s **bodily injury liability** (PIP $10,000 + PDL $10,000 minimum)
– **Limited PIP ($10,000)** to file with your own insurance for medical bills
– **UM/UIM coverage** is your safety net if the at-fault driver is uninsured
– **MedPay** (if you have it) covers medical costs regardless of fault

### Compensation May Include:
– Medical expenses (emergency, surgery, rehabilitation)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Vehicle replacement (T-bones often total vehicles)
– Pain and suffering
– Long-term care costs

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### Who is at fault in a T-bone at an intersection?
Typically the driver who **ran the light or failed to yield**. Under Florida’s new 51% bar, if fault is shared, the exact percentage determines whether you recover anything.

### How does this work with PIP covering only $10,000?
You pursue the at-fault driver’s bodily injury liability insurance. Because PIP only covers $10,000’s automatic $10,000 medical coverage, early medical documentation is critical.

### How long do I have to file?
**2 years** for personal injury (reduced from 4 under HB 837). 4 years for property damage.

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## Related Guides

– [What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida](/florida/car-accident-guide/)
– [Florida Car Accident Laws](/florida/car-accident-laws/)
– [Rear-End Collision in Florida](/florida/rear-end-collision/)

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**DISCLAIMER:** This website is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This page provides general educational information only. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation. This is not medical advice. If you have been injured, seek immediate medical attention. Last updated: March 2026.