What Is a Truck Underride Collision?

Underride collisions happen when a smaller vehicle collides with a larger one in such a way that part of the smaller vehicle goes under the larger one.

Have you ever seen an accident where a car crashes into a truck and goes underneath it? If so, you may have witnessed an underride collision. These crashes happen when a smaller vehicle collides with a larger one in such a way that part of the smaller vehicle goes under the larger one. Unfortunately, these collisions often result in serious injuries or even death.

This article will discuss how underride collisions occur, why they continue to happen despite regulations, how they can be prevented, and what you can do if you or a loved one is involved in an underride collision.

How Do Truck Underride Collisions Happen?

Underride crashes can take many forms. That said, there are generally two types of underride 

Side Underride Collisions

As the names suggest, a side underride collision occurs when a car collides with the side of a truck. These accidents are often caused by trucks making sudden lane changes or distracted driving.

Other causes can include following too closely behind a truck, which leaves little time to react if the truck should stop suddenly, or driving alongside a truck in such a way that the driver’s blind spot is obscured. In some cases, mechanical problems, road debris, or poor weather conditions can also lead to side underride collisions.

Rear Underride Collisions

Rear underride collisions, on the other hand, occur when a car collides with the back of a truck. These types of accidents typically occur when a passenger vehicle is following a truck too closely and does not have time to stop when the truck slows/brakes suddenly. Rear underride collisions can also be caused by other factors, including brake failure or simply not being able to see the truck in front of you.

Both side and rear underride collisions can result in serious injuries, including head injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal bleeding, and broken bones. In some cases, victims may be trapped inside their vehicles for hours before being rescued. Due to the high rate of serious injuries, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an underride truck accident.

How to Prevent Underride Collisions

• Truck companies should make sure their trucks are properly equipped with functioning underride guards.
• Truck drivers and companies should inspect their underride guards regularly to ensure they’re in good condition.
• Always leave plenty of space between you and the truck in front of you.
• Pay attention to the road and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Use your turn signals when changing lanes or turning corners. This will let other drivers know what you are doing and help avoid an accident.

Injured in an Underride Collision?

If you have been injured in an underride collision, it’s important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. An experienced St. Louis truck accident attorney can help you investigate the accident and determine who may be liable for your injuries. Furthermore, an attorney can also help you recover any damages that you may be entitled to.

At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, we have over 30 years of experience helping truck accident victims get the compensation they are legally entitled to. Give us a call today for a free case evaluation.