Los Angeles Underride Accident Lawyers You Can Count On

Underride accidents in the San Fernando Valley often have tragic outcomes

Very few people in passenger vehicles walk away unscathed from underride accidents with large commercial vehicles. An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle becomes lodged under the trailer of a larger vehicle, such as an 18-wheeler or semi.

When a car skids or slides underneath a tractor-trailer, the force often shears or crumples the vehicle’s roof, severely or fatally injuring the driver and passengers inside. LA's highways – including the 405 and 101– are among the most dangerous roads in California for truck accidents – including underrides.

If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a San Fernando Valley region underride truck accident, contact Oaks Law Firm for a free case evaluation. A member of our team is available 24/7 to assist you. We can listen to the details of what happened, answer questions, and explain your legal options for compensation.

What is an underride?

Since the 1970s, the U.S. has required all large trucks to have rear underride guards. Basically, the safety feature is little more than a lowered bar underneath a truck trailer. It saves lives by stopping cars from going under trucks at the hoods of the smaller vehicles – before reaching passenger cabs.

However, trucks are not required to have underride guards on the sides or front. The lack of side and front underride guards on many trucks leaves a significant gap in safety measures, increasing the risk of these devastating accidents. In many cases, poor lighting, lack of reflective tape, or the absence of proper warning signs can also contribute to the likelihood of underride collisions, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.

Other factors in underride accidents include sudden stops, failure to yield when making a turn, and poor road conditions.

Underride accidents are often fatal

Underride accidents are among the deadliest types of collisions. The lower profile of cars means that, in an underride accident, the impact often bypasses the crumple zones and safety features designed to protect passengers.

Instead, the smaller vehicle's roof and upper structure bear the brunt of the collision, often resulting in devastating consequences. The passenger compartment can be crushed, leading to severe head and neck injuries, traumatic brain injuries, decapitation, or immediate death.

For the families of victims, these accidents are not only a devastating loss but also present complicated legal challenges. Seeking justice and compensation requires navigating complex claims, often against large trucking companies and their attorneys.

Injured? We are here to help!

At Oaks Law Firm, we understand the profound impact that underride accidents can have on families and loved ones. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of victims and holding negligent parties accountable. We have a proven track record of successful truck accident results throughout California.

We will work tirelessly to seek the maximum compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and the emotional pain and suffering endured by your family.

If you've been affected by an underride accident in the San Fernando Valley, LA County, or anywhere in Southern California, we are here to listen and help. Schedule a free and confidential consultation today.