One of the most dangerous types of truck accidents is an underride accident. There is a high chance of severe injuries, especially to the head, chest and spinal cord. Many underride accidents result in fatal injuries.
An underride accident happens when a small vehicle gets wedged under the trailer of a large 18-wheeler. The discrepancy between the two vehicles allows the smaller vehicle to fit in the gap between the trailer and the road. The leading edge of that trailer strikes the passenger compartment of the smaller car, rendering many safety systems – such as crumple zones – relatively obsolete.
How could this accident happen?
These crashes often happen if a large vehicle turns in front of a smaller one and cuts it off.
For instance, say that a truck makes an ill-advised left turn across oncoming traffic lanes. An approaching passenger vehicle does not have time to stop and hits the side of the truck. If it were striking a vehicle of a relatively similar size, it would be a traditional T-bone accident. But because it is a semi-truck, it becomes an underride accident.
There are some steps that have been taken to reduce the ris of these crashes. For instance, many semi-trucks now have steel guards so that a smaller car will impact the guard instead of passing underneath the trailer. But these crashes can and do still happen in the United States.
Seeking financial compensation
Have you or a family member suffered severe injuries in an underride accident caused by a negligent truck driver? If so, it is imperative that you know what legal rights you have to seek financial compensation.
