Underride Accidents

Underride accidents are a grave type of trucking mishap involving a passenger vehicle. These incidents often lead to fatal consequences for the occupants of the smaller vehicle, primarily stemming from negligence. Determining legal liability in underride accidents is crucial for obtaining recovery after a severe car collision in Colorado. Depending on the circumstances, one or more parties may be responsible for covering medical expenses, disability costs, and other related financial burdens.

If you sustained injuries in a big rig accident in Colorado, contact Front Range Injury Attorneys today to schedule your free consultation. Our experienced legal team are knowledgeable and zealous advocates for our clients and their cases. We treat our clients as people, not case files. Learn more about how we can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact our Denver law firm to learn more.

Defining an Underride Accident

An underride accident transpires when a passenger vehicle slides beneath the trailer of a tractor-trailer or an 18-wheeler. The substantial height of the trailer increases the risk of an underride accident, especially when a low-profile passenger vehicle collides with the back or side of the trailer. There are two primary types of underride trucking accidents:

1. Rear Underride

This type of accident occurs when a car collides with the rear of a trailer, but instead of a conventional rear-end collision, the smaller vehicle becomes wedged beneath the trailer. The implementation of rear impact guards, along with proper illumination through red lights or reflectors, coupled with attentive driving, can substantially reduce the occurrence of rear underrides.

2. Side Underride

In a side underride, a passenger vehicle impacts the side of a tractor’s trailer. This can occur when a truck makes a turn in front of oncoming traffic, when a car merges into the side of a trailer, or if the visibility of the trailer’s white side is compromised due to external conditions like low light or bright sunlight.

Both types of underride accidents have the potential to be fatal for occupants of the passenger vehicle.

Unearthing the Causes

Underride trucking accidents are typically preventable with the exercise of due care and attention to certain responsibilities incumbent upon trucking companies. Failure to meet these obligations is a common factor contributing to rear and side underride accidents in Colorado. Several factors heighten the likelihood of an underride accident:

1. Lack of Contrasting Features: While most box trailers are equipped with reflective strips, colors, or other visibility-enhancing elements, certain conditions can diminish this contrast, leading to an underride incident.

2. Absence of Reflective Strips or Tape: Especially at night, a trailer lacking reflective equipment can be nearly invisible. Trucking companies must ensure the proper application and maintenance of tape on the sides and rear of a trailer to mitigate the risk of underride accidents. Failing to install or maintain a rear impact guard can also be a contributing factor.

3. Truck Driver Negligence: Actions such as abruptly pulling out in front of an oncoming vehicle, making sudden stops, or jackknifing can precipitate an underride accident. In such cases, the liability may extend to the trucking company, as they are vicariously responsible for the actions of their drivers in Colorado.

Underride accidents can also result from behaviors exhibited by the driver of the passenger vehicle, such as tailgating, speeding, or inattentive driving. Adverse weather conditions, poor visibility, and slippery roads can further exacerbate the risk of underrides.

Grappling with the Aftermath: Common Injuries

Injuries sustained in an underride accident involving a commercial truck can range from broken bones and head injuries to more severe traumas like traumatic brain injuries, loss of limbs, decapitation, burns, crush injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal organ injuries. Underrides are notorious for causing some of the most catastrophic personal injuries on the road. If you or a loved one has suffered such injuries in an underride accident in Colorado, it is imperative to explore your legal options. The responsible party, which may include the trucking company, could owe you substantial compensation. Reach out to an experienced Denver truck accident attorney today to discuss your case and pursue the justice you deserve. Call us now or schedule a consultation online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can underride accidents be prevented?

A1: Underride accidents can be prevented through measures such as installing rear impact guards, ensuring the presence of reflective strips or tape on trailers, and promoting responsible driving practices among truck drivers.

Q2: What are some common injuries resulting from underride accidents?

A2: Injuries from underride accidents can range from broken bones and head injuries to more severe traumas like traumatic brain injuries, loss of limbs, and spinal cord damage.

Q3: How can I determine legal liability after an underride accident?

A3: Determining legal liability involves assessing factors such as truck driver negligence, the presence of safety features on the trailer, and adherence to industry regulations by the trucking company. Consulting with a qualified attorney is crucial in this process.

Q4: What steps should I take if I’ve been involved in an underride accident?

A4: If you’ve been involved in an underride accident, seek immediate medical attention, document the scene, gather witness information, and consult with a skilled attorney experienced in trucking accidents to understand your legal rights and options.