An underride collision happens when a passenger vehicle travels under the rear or side of a trailer. Because the trailer deck strikes the passenger compartment above the vehicle's crumple zones and restraint systems, injuries are typically to the head and neck and are disproportionately fatal.
Rear impact guards are federally required on most trailers, while side underride protection remains largely unregulated.
Alternative Names:
Underride Crash, Underride Accident
Why it Matters?
Underride cases combine catastrophic damages with a product liability overlay against the trailer manufacturer alongside the negligence case against the carrier and driver. The analysis turns on guard compliance, condition, and maintenance, and on whether a compliant guard would have prevented the intrusion, which makes the physical trailer itself critical evidence that must be preserved before repair or disposal.
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Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Why are underride collisions so severe?
Is a product liability claim typical in underride cases?
