Why Do Texas Underride Truck Accidents Happen?

Underride accidents are one of the main causes of fatalities in Houston truck wrecks. This may come as a surprise to some, since those underride guards on the back of trucks are supposed to prevent cars from going underneath tractor-trailers...Aren't they?

Unfortunately, studies have shown that when these guards are struck - even at relatively slow speeds - they buckle. This allows the car to continue beneath the truck, severely injuring or even killing the occupants.

The reason for underride accidents is not as simple as following too closely. Other factors that may contribute to underride accidents include:

• Dirty truck lights or reflective tape
• Failure of a trucker to signal their intent to slow, turn or stop
• Failure of a trucker to use flares or reflective triangles when parked or broken down on the side of the road
• Truckers who enter quickly moving traffic at a very slow speed
• Chain reaction rear-end accidents
• Reduced visibility due to poor weather conditions
• Inability of passenger vehicle to stop because of slick roadways

 

Houston underride accidents often result in fatal or extremely severe injuries, including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or paralysis. If someone you love has been seriously or fatally injured in a Houston truck wreck, contact Denena & Points. Our Houston semi-truck crash lawyers will fight to get you the compensation you deserve from all responsible parties.