There are many dangerous types of accidents involving semi-trucks, and it can be argued that simply being involved in one at all is more dangerous than crashing into any other type of vehicle. A semi is so large and heavy that it inflicts a lot of damage on the other vehicle and that means you’re more likely to suffer serious injuries.
With all of that in mind, one of the most hazardous types of accidents is an underride accident. This happens when the other vehicle proceeds at least partially under the semi in the course of the crash.
The danger in this accident is massively increased because the passenger compartment of that smaller vehicle can be crushed completely. These vehicles are designed with structural systems that are lower than the impact point of this type of a crash. It is very likely that someone could suffer serious injuries to their chest, neck and head, perhaps resulting in a traumatic brain injury, paralysis or even a fatal incident. So whose fault is this kind of crash?
It depends how it happens
Fault is very important to determine after an accident and it can be a bit difficult. One big thing to look at is simply the type of accident that occurred.
For instance, most large trucks have a metal bar on the back to attempt to prevent an underride accident involving a vehicle behind them. As a general rule of thumb, the following vehicle is the one that is at fault for this type of rear-end accident.
But a lot of these accidents occur when a semi driver cuts off another vehicle. In this case, the underride accident happens between the front and back tires on the trailer. Some new trucks even have guards to prevent this because it is so excessively dangerous. If the accident happens this way, then it is likely that it is the truck driver‘s fault for cutting off that vehicle without enough space to make the maneuver properly.
If you have suffered serious injuries and you believe the other driver was at fault, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation.