There are many types of crashes that can occur in traffic. Some of them are more serious than others. Collisions involving passenger vehicles that collide with semi-trucks are among the most devastating crashes possible.
The size difference between the vehicles often leads to tragic consequences. The smaller vehicle cannot withstand the force of impact. Size difference is one of the reasons why underride crashes occur.
Motorists who understand underride collisions may be more proactive about ensuring their safety in traffic and more assertive about seeking compensation after a semi-truck collision.
Height differences cause underride crashes
The need for passenger vehicles to share space with much larger commercial trucks creates the risk of an underride crash. Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle rear-ends a semi-truck or makes contact with the side of the trailer.
The force of impact pushes the smaller vehicle under the trailer of the commercial truck. Underride crashes tend to cause severe damage to the smaller vehicles involved. In many cases, the people inside suffer life-altering or even deadly injuries.
Rear underride collisions are notoriously severe. They are also somewhat common. Federal lawmakers have adopted rules that require rear underride guards on the trailers of semi-trucks.
Unfortunately, side underride crashes can also prove devastating. Lawmakers have yet to adopt statutes mandating side underride guards. Only some trucks have these guards that can save lives in the event of a crash.
When underride collisions occur, the people affected by the crash may need help pursuing compensation. Filing a personal injury lawsuit or negotiating a large insurance claim can help people recover their financial losses after a preventable semi-truck collision.