The actual term “underride accidents” is not in the mainstream of phrases that the average person hears much, if any, during their lifetime. An underride is a term associated with an 18-wheeler accident and another car becoming pinned underneath the trailer from behind or in the middle. Many of these accidents occur as rear-end collisions when a driver slams into the tractor-trailer combo. The extra height and clearance underneath the trailer make for a deadly combination when a standard-height automobile collides with the back of a cargo carrier.
Some are fortunate enough to walk away from such tragic semi-truck accidents, but it means almost instant death for most. Trucking companies and the Department of Transportation are always working on new ways to prevent and under-ride pinning of vehicles with enhanced safety lighting and reflectors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights that underride accidents account for many truck-related fatalities.
The undercarriage barrier that exists on the back of every commercial trailer does not always do its job during a rear-end collision. More times than not, the barrier will fold like it is made of recycled soda cans or tin foil. The problem is that this safety feature is never tested and could be where the trailer maker cuts corners.
An underride truck accident occurs when a passenger vehicle collides with a larger truck and the smaller vehicle slides beneath the truck’s trailer. This type of accident often leads to catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protective barriers
Underride accidents typically happen when a smaller vehicle fails to stop in time, particularly in rear-end collisions or lane changes. The following factors contribute to the occurrence of these accidents:
Understanding the causes of underride truck accidents is crucial for prevention. Key factors include:
Many trucks lack appropriate underride guards. These guards prevent vehicles from sliding underneath the truck during a collision. Regulations stipulate that trucks manufactured after certain dates must have these safety features, but many older trucks are not compliant.
Human error remains a leading cause of underride car accidents. Distractions, fatigue, and impairment can lead to critical mistakes. Truck drivers, in particular, may experience fatigue due to long hours on the road, increasing the risk of an underride situation. Truck drivers can also fail to yield the right-of-way, causing an underride crash.
Poor road maintenance, such as potholes, debris, and inadequate signage, can contribute to driver errors. Furthermore, adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances.
The impact of underride truck accidents can be devastating. Victims often face:
Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and multiple fractures. The design of many vehicles offers little protection in an underride scenario, leading to life-altering conditions.
Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages can lead to significant financial strain on victims and their families. The cost of care for severe injuries can run into the millions, necessitating legal action to secure Compensation.
Beyond physical injuries, victims often experience psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional burdens can impact relationships and overall quality of life.
Victims of underride truck accidents may be entitled to Compensation. Key legal aspects include:
To pursue a claim, it’s essential to establish Liability. This may involve proving that the truck driver or trucking company was negligent. Factors like improper maintenance, inadequate training, or violation of safety regulations can all play a role.
If a truck was not equipped with proper underride guards, this may be a significant factor in establishing Liability. Regulations can vary by state, but demonstrating a failure to comply with safety standards can strengthen a case.
Victims can seek Compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Engaging a knowledgeable attorney with experience in truck accident cases can be crucial for navigating this complex legal landscape.
While underride truck accidents can have severe consequences, several measures can be implemented to enhance safety:
Improved Truck Design
Advocating for stricter regulations on underride guards can significantly reduce the risk of these accidents. Continuous improvements in truck design are essential to protect all road users.
Driver Education
Comprehensive training programs for both truck drivers and passenger vehicle operators can promote awareness of the dangers of underride accidents. Education on safe driving practices around large vehicles is critical.
Enhanced Road Safety Measures
Investment in better road infrastructure, including clear signage and proper maintenance, can help mitigate risks associated with underride accidents. Communities must prioritize safety initiatives to protect all drivers.
There are times when a very small or sub-compact car will try to change lanes and will actually drive underneath the trailer. The driver will usually panic and apply the brakes, which results in the rear wheels of the trailer running over the vehicle and crushing the car from the top down. Sometimes, hard braking leads to a jackknife accident.
One other type of underride accident that can occur is when an 18-wheeler locks it’s brakes and is in a full jackknife slide. The trailer comes up behind a slowing or stopped car or SUV and collides with the upper portion of the vehicle, causing severe bodily injury or, worse yet, decapitation. The Baumgartner Law firm has handled numerous serious injuries and wrongful death underride truck accidents.
About four hundred drivers and passengers in the United States are killed by this type of 18-wheeler accident every year, and public awareness should be higher about this potential type of accident than it is currently.
To speak with a Texas 18-wheeler accident attorney about an underride or other truck accident lawsuit in Houston, call us toll-free at (866) 758-4529. We handle cases in Houston and in Pearland, Conroe, Beaumont and other cities in Texas.
Get a FREE Consultation – (281) 893-0760
Related Articles:
Why 18-wheeler wrecks are so bad
Little Known Facts About 18-Wheelers
The main cause of a jackknife truck accident
9 Steps to Reduce the Odds of an Accident with a Semi-Truck
How Safe are Semi-Truck Bumpers?
Eye Tracking Technology to Prevent Truck Accidents
Call (281) 893-0760 or Toll Free 1-866-758-4529
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