An underride accident happens when two vehicles get into a collision and there is a significant size difference between them. An example of this could be a semi-truck and a convertible or a lifted pick-up truck and family sedan. One vehicle is much taller and heavier than the other.
This creates numerous problems during the crash. The biggest defining characteristic of an underride accident is that the smaller vehicle will get wedged under the larger one. It may become trapped or pinned, and people could be trapped inside the vehicle. This sometimes delays medical care because it takes time for emergency crews to get them out, which can make injuries more severe and increase fatality odds.
2 more reasons for severe injuries
Along with a delay in care, injuries can be more severe in an underride crash because one vehicle is so much taller than the other. If a convertible strikes a semi-truck, for instance, the edge of the truck’s trailer may be at the same level as the window on the convertible. The driver of the truck is unlikely to suffer any injuries in such a crash, but those in the smaller car could suffer serious head and upper body injuries because of the impact point of the collision.
The second reason has to do with the mass of the vehicles, as a larger vehicle will transfer more energy into a smaller one during an accident. The sheer weight of a semi-truck, which could weigh up to 80,000 pounds when it is fully loaded, makes the accident worse for those in the smaller vehicle.
Do you deserve compensation?
If you have been involved in an underride accident that was caused by another driver, you or a loved one could have suffered serious or even fatal injuries. If so, be sure you know what legal options you have.