An underride crash is one of the worst accidents out on the road. Because semi-truck trailers sit 41 inches above the road, there is enough room for a car to slide underneath and get wedged there. In the process, occupants can suffer serious injuries, including head or facial wounds and neck injuries.
At Larson & Gallivan Law, we have helped many people hurt in truck accidents. We know the challenges they and their families face with respect to medical care and lost income. Please contact us today. Our Rutland, VTtruck accident lawyers can begin analyzing the wreck to assign fault. This is usually the first step to obtaining fair compensation following a truck crash.
Potential Parties at Fault for an Underride
Cars shouldn’t normally get close enough to a tractor-trailer to slide under one. When an accident occurs, we need to assign fault by answering the question, “What caused this accident?” In our experience, the following parties could be to blame:
- The truck driver. Sometimes a driver pulls out in front of a motorist, who doesn’t have enough time to hit the brakes. These accidents can also happen on the freeway when the driver makes a lane change without checking blind spots.
- The car driver. Sometimes, a motorist driving a passenger vehicle is to blame for tailgating or driving aggressively.
- Another motorist. A different driver could hit the brakes in front of a tractor-trailer, causing the trucker to quickly brake. A motorist coming from behind might slam into the trailer as a result.
Every truck accident is unique and should be judged on its own facts. Quickly contact our legal team so we can begin sifting through the relevant evidence.
Defective or Missing Underride Guards
All tractor trailers should have a guard hanging on the back of the trailer. This guard is there to prevent a car from sliding underneath. The federal government has mandated the placement of guards on most commercial trucks since the 1990s.
Unfortunately, some underride guards are old and corroded. Others are defective or put on the truck improperly or with defective bolts. In these situations, the guard can fail to work as intended, and a car will nonetheless ride under the trailer, causing serious injuries.
When a guard is missing, defective, or improperly installed, the truck owner might bear ultimate fault for your injuries. At Larson & Gallivan Law, we always analyze whether trucks have the necessary safety features.
Interestingly, the federal government doesn’t require guards on the sides of trailers. This is unfortunate because many cars can easily get wedged underneath the side of the trailer, especially when a tractor-trailer makes a turn at an intersection. Although many advocates are pushing for the adoption of side guards, the federal government has declined to make them mandatory.
Injured in an Underride Crash? Contact Us
Our legal team can spring into action building a claim for compensation. When a truck driver or trucking company is to blame for your injuries, they should pay you compensation. CallLarson & Gallivan Law today to schedule a time to meet.