Override and Underride Trucking Accidents

 Override and Underride Trucking Accidents

An override truck accident occurs when a smaller vehicle is run over by a larger vehicle, usually a truck. An underride accident happens when a car or other vehicle slides underneath the back of a truck or perhaps the sides of a trailer. Because trucks are so massive, many of these collisions cause catastrophic injuries.

Main Reasons for Override Accidents

Some of the reasons a truck can easily run over a smaller vehicle include:

  • Truck tailgating
  • Brake failure
  • A Failure to yield
  • Defective tires
  • Improper lane change
  • Speeding
  • Foggy weather conditions
Main Reasons for Underride Accidents

A car can go under the back frame of a truck for many reasons, including:

  • Car tailgating the truck.
  •  A motorist failing to notice the trailer in foggy and rainy conditions.
  • A negligent act of the truck driver, such as a sudden stop.
Truck Negligence

Some Examples of trucker negligence are:

  • Failure to use proper lights or meet the standards for conspicuity when parked on the road.
  • Failure to use under-ride guards.
  • Failure to maintain the brakes, reflective tape or tail lights.

Since 1993, trailers are mandated to be fitted with reflective tapes along the sides and at the rear. However, many older trucks have not been retrofitted.

Watch YouTube Video: Cars vs. Truck - SemiTrailers Side Underride Crashes Accident. This video shows how crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) help determine that strong underride guards on tractor-trailers can help prevent underride crashes.

Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyers

I’m Ed Smith, a truck accident lawyer in Sacramento. Override and underride truck accidents can often cause serious injuries or deaths. If you or a family member has been involved in a truck accident, call me anytime for free, friendly advice at 916.921.6400 or 800.404.5400. I'm also available online through our contact form.

I'm a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

I encourage you to view our prior cases and client reviews on the following web pages:

Photo by depositphotos.com

Editor's Note: This page has been updated for accuracy and relevancy. [cha 12.12.18]

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"Me and my wife; had a car accident. We were amazed how easy, professional, friendly attorney Ed Smith is along with his staff. Everybody is amazing. Thank you so much, we are very impressed!" Alex & Dinah M.
★★★★★
"Ed Smith and his office team took on a difficult personal injury case on my behalf and for the passenger in my car. Ed is a top- notch attorney. His staff couldn't have been more helpful and kind. No need to look elsewhere. I give Ed Smith my highest recommendation." Beverly
★★★★★
"Ed and Robert have been taking great care of my husband and I for the past 5+ years. They are always there when you have a problem and a quick resolution! Even when the issues have nothing to do with them. They are willing to help ease the pain off your shoulders. They are as good as it gets! Thank you again for everything." Annie T.
★★★★★
"Very professional. Great team, staff and service all around. Mr Smith was very honest, straight forward with his advice. He gives the word "attorney" an honest reputation. I will seek his council anytime, and would recommend him at the drop of a dime." Jeremy M.
★★★★★
"I would highly recommend Ed Smith to any friends or family in need of a personal injury attorney. Ed, and his staff, are very caring on top of being very experienced in this field. The staff always keeps you informed of the status of your case and they are always easy to reach by phone." Shannon D.
★★★★★
"Edward Smith law offices provide competent, thorough, and personable help for victims of personal injury. When you first meet the staff you know you contacted the right office. This law office treats clients like people. I recommend this office to anyone seeking representation regarding personal injury." David M.
View More
Submit a Law Firm Client Review