Connecticut Truck Accident: What Is An Underride Accident?

Connecticut truck accidents can be caused by a variety of factors: too heavy a load, an insufficiently rested driver, improper maintenance of the rig, among others. Truck accidents of all types occur on Connecticut roadways, but one type that usually results in devastating injuries, including death, is an underride accident. An underride accident occurs when a passenger vehicle ends up underneath the truck. 

The following are common causes of underride accidents: 

• Truck driver parked too close to the road. Unless the truck is disabled, a truck driver should never park on a road where the speed limit is over 25 miles per hour. Even if the truck is disabled, the driver must put warning devices out to alert oncoming drivers.
• Tail lights not on or not working properly. If a motorist is unable to see a truck because the taillights were not on, were not working, or were too dirty, there is a greater risk of colliding into the rear of the truck.
• Truck does not have rear guards or there was a design defect. Installing rear guards on trucks is one of the most effective ways to prevent passenger vehicles from sliding under a truck in an accident. A truck carrier can be held liable for the accident and the resulting injuries if the truck did not have rear guards or there was a design defect.
• Reflective tape not visible. All new commercial trucks are required to be equipped with reflective tape on the sides and rear of the trailer. However, some companies have not retrofitted older trucks with reflective tape. This can make a commercial truck much more difficult to see, particularly at night or during inclement weather.
• Truck was moving slowly or backed into oncoming traffic. If the truck is travelling well below the speed limit, an approaching vehicle could hit the rear of the truck and slide underneath it. In addition, if a truck driver is backing up and fails to notice a passenger vehicle behind them, it can roll into it, causing the passenger vehicle to end up underneath the truck.

If you or a loved one was injured in a Connecticut truck accident, call our firm immediately. Our team has the knowledgeable staff to properly investigate your injuries and accident.