Car destroyed after underride crash with 18-wheeler in FloridaAn underride accident is a type of crash in which a smaller vehicle such as a passenger car collides with a larger vehicle, such as a semi truck, 18-wheeler, or tractor trailer, and slides under it. This can result in severe injuries or fatalities to the occupants of the smaller vehicle due to the lack of protection provided by the undercarriage of the larger vehicle. Underride crashes often occur when the smaller vehicle collides with the side of the larger vehicle, rather than the front or rear. The design of the larger vehicle's undercarriage and its protective devices, such as underride guards, can play a significant role in reducing the severity of an underride crashes.

Why Are Underride Crashes So Dangerous?

Underride crashes are particularly dangerous because the smaller vehicle is often crushed or severely damaged as it slides underneath the larger vehicle. The lack of a protective barrier between the two vehicles means that the occupants of the smaller vehicle are exposed to a much greater risk of serious injury or death. In many cases, the roof of the smaller vehicle is sheared off, which can result in severe head and neck injuries. Additionally, the occupants of the smaller vehicle may be thrown around inside the car, which can result in serious internal injuries or death.

Another factor contributing to the severity of underride crashes is the height difference between the two vehicles. Since trucks and trailers are often much higher off the ground than passenger cars, the smaller vehicle may collide with the undercarriage of the larger vehicle at a higher speed, which can result in more severe impacts.

Overall, the combination of the lack of protective barriers and the height differences between the two vehicles make underride accidents extremely dangerous and often fatal for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.

What Should I Do if I am Injured in an Underride Accident Involving a Semi Truck, 18-Wheeler, or Tractor Trailer?

If you have been injured in an underride crash involving a semi truck, 18-wheeler, or tractor trailer, it is important to take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay after the accident, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as internal injuries or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.

Gather Information

Try to gather as much information about the accident as possible, including the names and contact information of any witnesses, the names and insurance information of all drivers involved, and the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved. If you have a camera or smartphone, take photos and videos of the scene and any damage to your vehicle.

Contact The Police

Call the police to report the accident and ask for a copy of the accident report. The police report can be helpful in documenting the time and location of your crash.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company of the accident and provide them with the information you have gathered. Be careful about what you say to the insurance adjuster, as any statements you make can be used against you later. This is true not only with the insurance company of the at fault driver, but it’s true for your insurance company as well. Insurance companies are in the business of not paying out claims, so be careful what you say when you don’t have an attorney there to guide you.

Consult With a Florida Truck Accident Attorney As Soon As Possible

Consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in trucking accidents. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

It is important to take these steps as soon as possible after the accident, as there may be time limits for filing a claim or taking legal action. Additionally, taking these steps can help to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.

Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in an Underride Accident?

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in an underride accident with a semi truck, 18-wheeler, or tractor trailer, you should speak with an experienced Florida truck accident lawyer as soon as possible because you may be entitled to compensation. Please don’t hesitate to contact us on our website to set up your free consultation by email, or you can call our Orlando, Florida personal injury law firm today at (321) 352-7588 to schedule your free consultation by phone. When you schedule a consultation at our law firm, you will get a consultation with a truck accident lawyer, not a customer service representative or intake person.

If you need a South Carolina truck accident lawyer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (843) 638-6590. We have at least one lawyer licensed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. So, if you’ve been injured another state, we may be able to help you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We will help you however we can.

For more information on semi truck accidents, you can download our free e-book: 10 BIG Questions You Need Answered After a Truck Accident.