Some passenger vehicle drivers might not be aware that smaller vehicles can slide under commercial vehicles during a car crash. This phenomenon is called a truck underride accident, and it can greatly endanger the lives of the occupants of the passenger vehicle.
Familiarizing oneself with the triggers of these catastrophic accidents is crucial for both truck drivers and passengers of smaller vehicles.
Types of underride accidents
Truck underride accidents can happen in two primary ways: from the back of the truck and from the side of a commercial vehicle. Rear underride accidents happen when a passenger vehicle collides with the back of a truck and slides under the trailer. This often happens during sudden stops or if the truck’s taillights are not visible or functioning correctly.
Conversely, side underride accidents happen when a passenger vehicle goes under the side of a truck due to:
- Poor visibility
- Lack of side guards on trucks
- Sharp turns
Side underride accidents usually happen at intersections or during lane changes.
Common causes of underride accidents
One of the greatest contributors to underride accidents is poor visibility in low light conditions as a result of:
- Fog
- Rain
- Night driving
Poor visibility can cause drivers to fail to notice each other until it is too late. The presence of commercial vehicles with inadequate reflective markings or lighting on the roadways also increases the risk of underride accidents. Trucks without proper lighting or reflective tape are harder to notice from a distance. A truck driver with a broken mirror or who does not check their mirror properly may not notice they are about to cut across the path of a smaller vehicle.
Passenger vehicle drivers who get involved in underride accidents may wonder if they are eligible for some form of compensation. They can enlist reputable legal guidance to seek clarification on their situation and explore available legal avenues for compensation.