Skip to content
T-Bone Collision
←Moto Terms

T-Bone Collision

1 min read

A right-angle collision where one vehicle strikes the side of another. Extremely dangerous for motorcyclists.

What is it

A T-bone collision occurs when one vehicle strikes the side of another at a roughly perpendicular angle. For motorcyclists, this is among the deadliest crash types — there is zero protection between you and the impacting vehicle.

How it happens

  1. A car runs a red light or fails to yield — the motorcyclist hits the side
  2. The rider fails to notice a car at an intersection and rides into it
  3. A car turns from a side road without seeing the motorcycle

How to reduce the risk

  • Slow down at every intersection — even when you have the green
  • Cover the brake — fingers on the lever, ready to stop instantly
  • Make eye contact with drivers — if they don't see you, they won't yield
  • Wear high-visibility gear or reflective equipment

Liked it? Share with fellow riders

Related terms

Highside

A violent ejection over the top of the motorcycle — one of the most dangerous motorcycle crashes.

Lowside

The motorcycle slides out and falls to the inside of the turn. Less violent than a highside but far more common.

Stoppie

Flipping over the front wheel from excessive front brake force. The rear wheel lifts off the ground.

Whiskey Throttle

Involuntary throttle opening from panic — the hand grips tighter, accelerating the bike uncontrollably.

Tank Slapper / Wobble

Uncontrollable handlebar oscillation at speed — the bars violently slap side to side.

Nebachiv Book and App — in progress

Get early access

Next term

Head-on Collision

Head-on Collision

A frontal collision between two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. The deadliest crash type — speeds combine.