Size differences can play a major role in a car accident. When one vehicle is very large, such as a semi-truck, it can sometimes trap other vehicles underneath it during a collision. This is referred to as an underride accident.
For example, say that a small passenger car is driving down a main highway, approaching a cross street. It is a two-way stop, so the passenger car has the right of way and does not need to stop or yield.
However, a semi-truck runs the stop sign and crosses the street directly in front of the passenger car. The driver hits the brakes, but there is not enough space to stop, and they strike the semi-truck between the wheels on the trailer. The small car could become wedged under the trailer and may even be dragged across the road.
Why are the associated injuries so catastrophic?
When there is a major size difference between two vehicles, those in the smaller vehicle are more likely to suffer serious injuries. This is especially true in an underride accident because the impact point is higher on the smaller vehicle. People are more likely to suffer chest, neck or head injuries.
Another component of an underride accident is that, if the small car is pinned or crushed, it can be difficult for emergency responders to get the victims out and provide medical treatment. Even if it only delays the process by a few minutes, that can have a major impact on someone who is suffering from internal bleeding, a traumatic brain injury, a spinal cord injury or something of that nature.
Underride accidents are some of the most dangerous truck accidents that can occur. Injuries are often life-changing. Those who have been hurt due to a truck driver’s negligence must know what legal steps to take.