Personal vehicles travel alongside semitrucks on a daily basis. While many people understand that semitrucks are dangerous vehicles, simply because of their massive size and incredible weight, some don’t realize that there are other hazards that come with these large vehicles.
One specific hazard that’s common in semitrucks is the possibility of an underride crash. This occurs when a smaller vehicle slides beneath the rear or side of the semitruck. This can lead to catastrophic, and sometimes fatal, injuries.
Why are underride crashes so devastating?
Height differences between a passenger vehicle and a semitruck mean that the car’s safety features won’t offer protection. In many cases, the impact of the crash causes the upper portion of the vehicle to be crushed. This is an area that doesn’t have airbags and isn’t in the crumple zone.
These crashes can occur at high speeds or in stop-and-go traffic, but the results are likely going to be the same. Common causes include low visibility, braking by a truck or poor lighting. Side underride crashes can occur during a lane change or a wide turn. It’s especially common if a truck crosses paths with oncoming traffic.
Prevention of underride crashes
Underride guards are one of the most effective ways to prevent underride crashes. Rear guards are required by federal law, but that doesn’t mean that they’re all strong enough to withstand high-speed crashes.
Victims of underride crashes can suffer catastrophic injuries, some of which can be fatal. The cost of medical care can be significant. These victims may choose to seek compensation after the crash. The time they have to do this is limited, so they should explore the option swiftly and work with someone familiar with these matters to get the case moving forward.