A Detailed Look at Underride and Override Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are among the most devastating incidents on the road, but two types often lead to the most severe consequences—underride and override accidents.

These aren’t common terms to most drivers, but understanding them is crucial. And sadly, they often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

If you or someone you know has been affected by such an accident, it’s important to act quickly. Many people turn to the qualified truck accident lawyers at William Mattar—professionals who understand the serious nature of these crashes.

Let’s break down what underride and override accidents really are.

What Is an Underride Accident?

An underride accident happens when a smaller vehicle slides under the side or rear of a large truck, usually a trailer. This typically occurs when the truck stops suddenly or when a car hits the trailer at night and doesn’t see it clearly. The front of the car goes under the trailer, and the upper section of the vehicle—including the windshield and roof—gets crushed.

These accidents are especially dangerous because the point of impact is often at head level for the vehicle’s occupants. Even safety tools like airbags and seatbelts can’t protect passengers from injuries in these scenarios. Many underride crashes result in fatalities on impact.

What Is an Override Accident?

An override accident is the opposite. It happens when a large truck rides over a smaller vehicle, usually from behind. This can happen when:

• A truck follows too closely
• A smaller vehicle suddenly stops
• The truck driver is distracted or fatigued

Since trucks weigh tens of thousands of pounds, they require a much longer stopping distance. If the truck can’t stop in time, it may drive right over the car in front of it, crushing the rear end of the smaller vehicle and trapping the occupants.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Both underride and override accidents often occur because of preventable factors:

• Lack of underride guards: Not all trailers are equipped with strong underride protection, especially on the sides.
• Low visibility: Trailers without proper reflectors or lighting may be nearly invisible at night or in bad weather.
• Inadequate following distance: Trucks need more room to stop. When drivers don’t maintain a safe distance, override crashes become more likely.
• Blind spots: If a truck driver can’t see a car alongside or behind them, they may unintentionally make a move that causes an accident.
• Poor maintenance: Brake failures or faulty lights can also contribute to both types of accidents.

The Consequences of These Accidents

Underride and override accidents almost always involve severe consequences:

• Fatal injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal damage
• Permanent disability
• High medical bills and long-term care needs

Victims rarely walk away unharmed from these accidents.

Prevention

There are ongoing discussions and proposed regulations aimed at reducing underride and override crashes:

• Stronger rear and side underride guards: Some manufacturers are adding guards that are better designed to absorb impact.
• Automatic emergency braking (AEB): This technology can help trucks avoid collisions when cars stop suddenly.
• Improved visibility standards: Better lighting and reflective tape on trailers can help other drivers see trucks clearly in all conditions.
• Stricter maintenance checks: Ensuring that brakes, lights, and guards are functioning properly helps prevent equipment-related crashes.

Final Thoughts

Underride and override truck accidents are tragic, but they’re preventable. Poor equipment, lack of visibility, and driver error are major factors. With better safety measures, technology, and awareness, the number of these crashes can go down.

But when they do happen, they demand serious attention and legal help.

Knowing your rights and getting proper representation can make all the difference in holding the right parties accountable.