Truck accidents are among the most devastating events on our roads, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Two particularly dangerous types of truck crashes are under-ride and over-ride accidents.
Under-ride and over-ride truck accidents pose unique risks to passengers in cars. In this blog, we’ll explore the nature of these accidents, their causes, and what victims can do to seek justice.
If you have been hurt in a truck collision in Georgia, contact our Albany truck accident lawyers for a free consultation today at 229-210-6226.
What Are Under-Ride Accidents?
Under-ride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle collides with a large truck and slides underneath the trailer. These accidents are especially dangerous because they can shear off the top of the passenger vehicle, causing catastrophic injuries to its occupants.
Under-ride accidents often happen at the rear or side of a truck, where there may be insufficient guards to prevent a car from sliding underneath. The primary causes of under-ride accidents include:
- Poor visibility: When trucks lack proper reflective tape or lighting, other drivers may not see them in time to avoid a collision.
- Sudden stops: If a truck stops abruptly, trailing vehicles may not have enough time to react.
- Improper turns: Wide turns by trucks can create situations where cars might slide under the trailer.
- Inadequate guards: Some trucks lack proper under-ride guards or have guards that are not strong enough to prevent a car from sliding underneath.
What Are Over-Ride Accidents?
Over-ride accidents, on the other hand, occur when a large truck runs over a smaller vehicle. These accidents often happen when a truck rear-ends a car, causing the truck to ride up and over the back of the smaller vehicle.
Over-ride accidents can also occur when a truck fails to stop in time at an intersection or during chain-reaction collisions on highways. Common causes of over-ride accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Truck drivers who are not paying full attention to the road may not notice stopped or slowed traffic ahead.
- Brake failure: Malfunctioning brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
- Following too closely: Trucks require much more distance to stop than passenger vehicles, and following too closely increases the risk of an over-ride accident.
- Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, or ice can increase stopping distances and make over-ride accidents more likely.
Preventing Under-Ride and Over-Ride Truck Accidents
Preventing under-ride and over-ride accidents requires a multi-faceted approach involving truck manufacturers, trucking companies, and drivers of both trucks and passenger vehicles.
For under-ride prevention, stronger and more effective guards are crucial. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has been advocating for improved under-ride guard standards for years. Some newer designs show promise in reducing the severity of under-ride accidents.
To prevent over-ride accidents, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in trucks, such as automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning systems, can play a significant role.
Liability and Seeking Justice
If you or a loved one has been involved in an under-ride or over-ride accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, and victims may be entitled to significant compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Determining liability in these cases can be complex. Potentially liable parties may include:
- The truck driver, if negligence was a factor.
- The trucking company, if they failed to maintain the vehicle properly or pushed drivers to exceed safe operating hours.
- The truck or parts manufacturer, if a defect contributed to the accident.
- Government entities, if poor road design or maintenance played a role.
Given the complexity of these cases and the potentially severe consequences, it’s crucial to work with an experienced truck accident attorney who understands the nuances of under-ride and over-ride accidents.
Let an Experienced Albany Truck Accident Lawyer Fight for Your Rights!
Under-ride and over-ride truck accidents can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. If you’ve been affected by one of these tragic accidents, you need a knowledgeable and dedicated legal advocate on your side.
At Joe Durham Jr., P.C., we have the experience and expertise to handle complex truck accident cases and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t face this challenging time alone. As a new client, you benefit from a free case review, so call us today at 229-210-6226.
