Underride accidents are some of the most gruesome truck accidents, often resulting in decapitation or dismemberment. This type of accident is made more tragic by the fact that the majority of underride events could be prevented with safety equipment, minimizing injuries and death even in cases where the accident was unavoidable. If you have been injured in or lost a loved one to an underride accident, please talk to our truck accident attorneys right away.personal injury lawyers

What is an Underride Accident?

In underride, a passenger vehicle slides beneath the trailer of the truck, often shearing off the top of the car or other small vehicle. Underride accidents typically occur when a car hits a large commercial truck, but can also occur in a sideswipe accident.

Normally, when a passenger vehicle strikes another car or object, the engine compartment of a vehicle will take the brunt of the impact. In an underride accident, the bottom of the truck’s trailer is high enough off the ground for the hood of the car to pass underneath. All of the force goes to upper part of the vehicle which is mostly glass and provides almost no protection for the people inside.

Underride Prevention

Underride accidents are only possible because of the height discrepancy between the passenger vehicle and the truck. Good underride guards can prevent underride from occurring in the case of an accident. Underride guards are required by law on newer commercial trucks, but they often fail in a crash.
The most common cause of accidents in which underride occurs is poor visibility. These accidents often occur at night, with the passenger vehicle striking the truck because the driver could not see the truck. Reflective tape is required to increase the visibility of trucks, but it quickly becomes dirty and no longer enhances visibility.18 wheeler accident lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by in a truck accident, please call our truck accident attorneys. The initial consultation with our truck accident attorneys is free, and if we agree to represent you, we will work for a contingent fee, which means we won’t get paid for our services unless you receive a settlement or an award. A truck accident lawsuit must be filed before the expiration of the statute of limitations. Please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.

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