When a passenger vehicle collides with the rear or side of a large truck and slides underneath it, the result is often catastrophic. These incidents are known as underride accidents, and they often shear off the top of a car, causing fatal injuries or crushing trauma.
Despite federal safety recommendations, many trucks lack adequate guards to prevent these tragedies. For victims and families, understanding the risks and legal options is essential.
What causes underride accidents?
Underride crashes typically occur when a truck stops suddenly, turns across traffic or is poorly illuminated at night. Smaller vehicles may not have time to brake or may be unable to see the truck’s trailer until it’s too late.
Faulty or missing underride guards, low visibility and poor road conditions all contribute to the danger. Even at moderate speeds, the impact can be devastating.
Why underride accident injuries are often fatal
The design mismatch between trucks and cars means safety features (airbags, crumple zones, etc.) offer little protection in an underride scenario.
Many victims suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations and other catastrophic harm. Survivors often face long-term disability, emotional trauma and overwhelming medical costs. Unfortunately, death on impact is another underride truck accident risk.
Legal remedies for victims and families
In Minnesota, those injured in an underride accident, or families who’ve lost a loved one, may seek compensation through an injury or wrongful death claim. The damages available to injured survivors and grieving families can cover medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering and funeral expenses.
If you or someone you love has been affected by an underride truck accident, seek legal guidance immediately to protect your compensation.