Underride Accidents
There is always a risk of an accident when motorists drive near 18-wheelers on highways or other roads. Because of the sheer size of 18-wheelers and other large trucks, any accident with these vehicles could result in a number of serious injuries. Many car and 18-wheeler accidents involve underriding. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety found that half of all fatalities in truck accidents involved front, side, or rear underriding.
Underriding occurs when vehicles get trapped underneath large trucks, 18-wheelers, or trailers. This is fairly common with smaller cars because of the extreme height difference between the two vehicles. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from an underriding accident, you may be able to pursue compensation from the party responsible for your accident. Contact your Iowa injury lawyers of LaMarca & Landry, P.C., today at 877-327-2600 to discuss your legal rights and options.
How to Prevent Underriding Accidents
Underriding accidents significantly increase the risk of a severe injury or fatality because these accidents tend to affect a driver’s head and / or neck. There is also an increased risk of getting crushed by the large truck. To prevent an underride injury, truck drivers can do the following:
- Make sure their trailer has reflective tape and running lights
- Always use a blinker when changing lanes
- Install guard rails alongside their trailers
Motorists can also prevent underride accidents by:
- Not driving in an 18-wheeler’s blind spots
- Checking your blind spots before changing lanes
- Not cutting off 18-wheelers when changing lanes
Contact Us
If you have been involved in an underride accident with a large truck or semi, contact your Iowa injury lawyers of LaMarca & Landry, P.C., today at 877-327-2600.
