There are several types of collisions commonly associated with semi-trucks. Uneven loads or sharp curves might result in a semi-truck rollover incident. Semi-trucks can also jackknife in traffic, which might lead to them colliding with multiple other vehicles and blocking an entire thoroughfare.
Underride collisions are also unique crashes that typically involve large commercial trucks. Underride collisions had the potential to cause devastating damage to smaller vehicles and severe injury to their occupants.
How underride collisions occur
An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle strikes the trailer of a semi-truck. Many underride crashes are rear underride crashes. The passenger vehicles following a semi-truck may get too close. The driver may be unable to fully stop when the semi-truck stops or slows down in front of them. Particularly if they hit the rear of the semi-truck’s trailer from an angle, they could end up with their vehicle at least partially under the trailer of the semi-truck.
Side underride crashes are also somewhat common. If a semi-truck suddenly turns in front of oncoming lanes of traffic, any vehicle that strikes the side of the trailer might go under it between the axles. Such crashes are often fatal. If people survive underride crashes, they may have severe, debilitating injuries.
How companies prevent underride crashes
There are two main tactics that transportation companies can employ to reduce the risk of underride collisions. The first involves investing in proper underride guards. Side underride guards are not mandatory yet, but they save lives. Companies that install these guards can prevent side underride crashes from causing tragic outcomes.
Investing in stronger, larger rear underride guards can also save lives. The baseline guards required by law are not quite as effective as other models. Companies can save lives by investing more in these critical devices for their vehicles. Proper training of drivers to ensure that they comply with the law can also go a long way toward preventing underride collisions.
Those affected by semi-truck crashes may need help handling a complex insurance claim or preparing for litigation, and that’s okay. Understanding that companies can limit the likelihood or severity of underride crashes may inspire people to assert themselves after a collision occurs.