What Is an Underride Truck Accident?

 Posted on November 12, 2025 in Car Accidents

Underride accidents are among the most dangerous types of truck crashes. They happen when a smaller vehicle slides under the side or back of a tractor-trailer. Because the bottom of the trailer is around the same height as a car’s windshield, the top of the smaller vehicle can be sheared off on impact. These crashes are violent, often fatal, and almost always preventable.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an underride crash, you deserve to understand what happened and who may be responsible. A free, no-pressure consultation with a Lake County truck accident lawyer can help you understand what to do next. 

How Do Underride Accidents Happen?

Most underride crashes happen at night or in low-visibility conditions when a car’s driver cannot clearly see the back or side of a truck. Some happen when a truck suddenly slows down or stops and the car behind it cannot brake in time. Others happen when a truck turns, merges, or crosses lanes without warning.

Federal law requires trucks to have reflective tape and rear underride guards designed to prevent cars from sliding underneath. However, many of these safety guards are ignored or poorly maintained. When that happens, even a low-speed collision can be deadly.

Why Are Underride Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

The danger of an underride crash comes from the mechanics of the collision itself. A passenger car’s hood is usually lower than the back or side of a trailer. When a crash happens, the smaller car can wedge underneath the trailer instead of absorbing the impact through its bumper or airbags.

This often leads to crushing injuries to the upper body and head. Victims of underride crashes frequently suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe internal bleeding. Many do not survive the initial impact. According to federal data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hundreds of people die every year in underride crashes, and many others live with life-changing injuries. The emotional and financial toll these accidents have on families is enormous. 

Can You Sue After an Underride Truck Crash? 

In Illinois, several parties may share responsibility for an underride crash. The truck driver may be liable if they drove dangerously; the trucking company may also be responsible; you or your loved one may share some responsibility for the accident. 

A thorough investigation of maintenance records, black box data, and inspection reports can reveal exactly what went wrong and who should pay for the harm caused.

Call a Lake County, IL Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love was hurt in a collision with a semi-truck, you have options. At Barrington Injury Attorneys, our Barrington truck accident lawyers have the experience to take on major trucking and insurance companies. We will fight to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Call 224-900-HURT today for a free consultation. We speak English, Russian, and Ukrainian.