Underride accidents, where a passenger vehicle collides with an 18-wheeler and slides underneath, are among the most lethal types of collisions on the road. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, primarily due to the devastating impact on the passenger compartment of smaller vehicles. This article explores the causes of underride accidents, discusses their severe consequences, and outlines the legal implications for victims seeking justice and compensation.
Causes of Underride Accidents
Underride accidents can occur in both rear-end and side-impact collisions with 18-wheelers. One common scenario is when an 18-wheeler stops suddenly or is moving slowly without adequate warning signals, and a passenger vehicle following too closely cannot stop in time, sliding underneath the trailer. Side underride accidents happen when an 18-wheeler maneuvers across or turns onto a road, and an oncoming vehicle crashes into the side of the trailer. Factors contributing to these accidents include poor visibility, lack of adequate underride guards, insufficient lighting and reflective markings on the truck, and adverse weather conditions that impair the smaller vehicle driver’s ability to react in time.
Consequences of Underride Accidents
The consequences of underride accidents are often catastrophic. The design of most passenger vehicles is not meant to withstand the impact of sliding underneath a high trailer. This can lead to the shearing off of the vehicle roof and severe head and upper body injuries to the occupants. In many cases, these accidents result in fatal injuries due to the significant intrusion of the trailer into the passenger compartment. Survivors might face long-term disabilities, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and disfigurement, significantly impacting their quality of life.
Legal Implications for Underride Accident Victims
Determining liability in underride accidents involves investigating whether all safety regulations were adhered to by the truck driver and the trucking company. This includes checking if the truck was equipped with federally mandated underride guards, which are designed to prevent cars from sliding underneath in the event of a collision. It also involves examining whether these guards were properly maintained and whether any negligence in their upkeep contributed to the severity of the accident.
Victims of underride accidents should seek immediate legal representation to navigate the complexities of these claims. Personal injury attorneys are crucial for conducting thorough investigations, establishing liability, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, litigating to secure just compensation. These legal experts ensure that victims receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
Conclusion
Underride accidents involving 18-wheelers are deadly and require significant attention to prevention, including adherence to safety protocols and the use of adequate underride protection. For those affected, obtaining experienced legal representation is essential to effectively address the aftermath of such traumatic incidents. A skilled personal injury lawyer can provide the necessary support to help victims and their families recover and secure the compensation they rightfully deserve.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico and New York. We have handled numerous cases involving catastrophic auto and bus accidents in both federal and state court across the country. Our attorneys have extensive experience and the skills needed to aggressively represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in a trucking or commercial vehicle accident.
The experienced accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm have previously been involved in similar cases and can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was involved in an accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.