Rogers Underride Accident Lawyer

Types of Underride Accidents

Most underride accidents result in the cars’ tops being entirely sheared off.

This may lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

Two (2) types of underride accidents can lead to these adverse circumstances, namely:

Rear underride accidents

A rear underride accident occurs when a vehicle rams into the rear end of a trailer or truck in Rogers, Arkansas.

Slow-moving trucks, low visibility conditions, poorly marked trucks, and trucks that are parked on the shoulder can cause these accidents.

Side underride accidents

A side underride accident happens when a driver slams into the side of a truck.

These types of accidents are common at night or during conditions of low sun-angle.

They typically happen during U-turns or when a truck driver is exiting or entering a roadway.

Drivers assume that the other driver can see them or that the truck will turn onto a different street in time.

They may assume that it is moving faster than it is.

However, this isn’t always true.

These scenarios may end up causing side underride collisions.

Causes of Underride Accidents

Underride crashes in Rogers, Arkansas, happen due to the buildup of tractor-trailers as compared to passenger vehicles.

Trucks have a higher profile in contrast to many passenger vehicles.

The top of a passenger car may only get to the wheels of an 18-wheeler during an underride collision.

Here are some of the ways underride accidents occur:

Rear-end crashes

This is the most common type of underride accident.

The driver of a passenger vehicle may not have time to respond when a trucker suddenly brakes.

The passenger vehicle may end up slamming into the trailer’s back.

This accident is known as a rear-end collision.

Rear-end collisions typically happen if a slow-moving truck is turning into a different street.

They may also be caused by trucks parked next to the road.

These accidents can lead to fatal injuries for front-seat passengers and drivers.

They may experience decapitation during rear-end collisions.

Side-impact collisions

Yearly, hundreds of people die in side-impact collisions.

A passenger vehicle may ram into a trailer that veers into the car’s path.

Without side guards, the passenger car may be sternly crushed by the truck.

The impact of a side underride accident in Rogers may cause car roof shearing.

Offset crashes

Awareness about offset underride crashes started being raised recently by accident researchers.

An offset underride crash occurs when a car following a trailer hits the trailer’s back on one of its corners.

This isn’t a head-on crash.

The hard metal corner of the trailer penetrates the compartment of the passenger or driver during an off-set crash.

These collisions can be catastrophic.

Why Underride Accidents Happen

According to the US Department of Transportation, most commercial trucks on US roads are required to have markings and guards.

All commercial trailers must have rear guards and retro-reflective tape on the sides and back.

The tape’s pattern should alternate between red and white.

It may not be easier to see a trailer at night, even with this tape.

Nonetheless, the tape can clearly outline a trailer’s shape to other road users.

Regrettably, underride accidents in Arkansas continue to happen – here’s why:

Lack of underride guards

Federal regulations require underride guards at the rear end of trailers.

There are no regulations that require side guards for trailers.

Still, not all trailers have rear guards installed.

Improper underride guards

Trucking companies may opt to install guards that don’t meet set impact and strength standards.

They may install guards that aren’t the right size for a trailer.

Guards may also be installed higher than intended.

This renders the guards ineffective during an underride accident.

Defective tape and lights

Defective tail lights and reflective tape can affect visibility.

Truckers should ensure the replacement tape isn’t worn out, dirty, or peeled.

Running lights and taillights should always be operational.

Outdated underride guards

Many lawmakers want to fine-tune underride guard legislation.

They are advocating for mandatory side guards on all commercial trucks.

They also want to strengthen rear guards.

Trucker errors

Truckers may be held liable if their actions lead to underride accidents in Rogers, AR.

A trucker may be found negligent if he or she doesn’t use reflective triangles or road flares when parked on the side of the road, doesn’t observe the rules of the road, or ignores the use of emergency flashers when turning or crossing onto a street.

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims in ‎Arkansas

There is a time limit for a plaintiff to file a lawsuit for a truck accident in Arkansas.

A claim should be filed within 3 years from the date of the accident in Arkansas.

This is the statute of limitations for truck accident injuries and deaths.

Exceptions can be made if a minor was involved in a truck accident.

The 3-year time limit may be extended until the plaintiff turns 21 years old.

Arkansas law considers anyone under 21 years old a minor.

Contact an Underride Accident Lawyer at Keith Law Today

Underride accidents can be catastrophic.

They may cause severe injuries and deaths.

You can never be ready for an accident.

They can occur at any time.

You need the help of an experienced truck accident attorney in Rogers, AR if you or your loved one has been involved in an underride accident.

Our competent team at Keith Law will fight aggressively for you.

We will gather evidence to make your case airtight.

We are ready to represent you in court.

Our attorneys at Keith Law have the resources and experience to help you seek compensation for property damage, pain, lost wages, medical bills, emotional distress, and more.

Call us today at (479) 326-7761 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.