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.

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 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.

If you have been seriously injured in an override or underride trucking crash, contact our Sacramento truck accident lawyers today for free, friendly advice regarding your potential case at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. Our injury attorneys are also available online through our contact form.

We are members of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

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Editor’s Note: This page has been updated for accuracy and relevancy [cha 3.31.21]

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