One of the scariest types of motor vehicle accidents is an underride accident in which a smaller vehicle gets lodged underneath a semi truck. These truck accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. The experienced truck accident lawyers at the Oklahoma Injury Law Firm are here to fight for the justice and accountability you deserve if you were injured or lost a loved one in one of these serious accidents. Call us today to take advantage of a free case review.
Why Do Underride Accidents Occur?
Underride accidents are possible because big rigs are much larger and higher off the ground than passenger vehicles. When commercial trucks are missing required underride guards that prevent such accidents, or a truck driver suddenly stops, the smaller passenger car can get wedged beneath the large truck.
Injuries That Occur in Underride Accidents
During an underride crash, the roof of the smaller vehicle can be sheared off, leading to possible decapitation and traffic fatalities. Even when these underride crashes aren’t deadly, they almost always result in other serious injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Internal organ damage and bleeding
- Severe burns
- Bone fractures
These injuries may require extensive These terrifying accidents can also result in psychological trauma, potentially causing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health challenges.
What Damages Can Be Awarded in an Underride Crash Case?
Due to the significant injuries these crashes can cause, the potential damages that can be awarded could be extensive, including the following:
- Medical costs for immediate medical treatment, emergency room visits, ambulance rides or air evacuation services, specialist visits, and doctor’s visits
- Ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, therapy, and nursing care
- Medication, medical equipment, and mobility aids
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages and benefits
- Reduced earning capacity
- Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle and other damaged personal property
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Disabilities and impairments
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Let our experienced legal team fight for fair compensation while you focus on your recovery.
Who Is Responsible for Underride Accidents?
Underride accidents may be caused by various parties, such as:
- Truck drivers who stop suddenly or fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes
- Trucking companies that are responsible for the negligence of their drivers or for failing to maintain their trucks or install underride guards
- Manufacturers of underride guards that produce defective products
- Repair shops that do not properly replace damaged underride guards
An experienced attorney can investigate your case to determine who is responsible for your damages.
Contact Our OKC Underride Accident Attorneys for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one was injured in an underride accident, you need dedicated legal representation. Oklahoma Injury Law Firm has been representing accident victims for decades and has successfully recovered millions for our clients. We can take on trucking companies, product manufacturers, and other negligent parties, fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today and call (405) 310-8800 to learn more.