Override and Underride Trucking 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
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.
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.
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 LawyerI’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 our injury attorneys anytime for free, friendly advice at 916.921.6400 or 800.404.5400. We are also available online through our contact form.
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Editor’s Note: This page has been updated for accuracy and relevancy [cha 11.18.20]
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