Getting into a truck underride accident is one of the most devastating experiences a person can face. These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries or even death, and the moments afterward can feel overwhelming.
If you or someone you love was involved in an underride accident in the Haltom City or greater Fort Worth area, it’s critical to act quickly to protect your health, your rights, and your future.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, you should always get checked out by a doctor after an underride crash. These accidents often cause internal injuries, brain trauma, or spinal damage that may not be obvious right away. Medical documentation also plays a vital role in any future legal claim.
Document the Scene (If You’re Able)
Photos of the crash site, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries can serve as powerful evidence. If police respond to the scene, make sure to obtain a copy of the accident report. Try to get witness names and contact information if possible.
Don’t Talk to the Insurance Company Without Legal Help
Trucking companies and their insurers move quickly to limit their liability. You may be contacted for a recorded statement or offered a low settlement. Please don’t speak with them until you’ve consulted a truck accident attorney who understands underride crashes. These cases involve complex issues of fault, safety standards, and federal regulations.
Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
The Texas truck accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte have decades of experience helping victims of commercial vehicle crashes. Our attorneys know how to investigate the cause of underride collisions, identify liable parties, and pursue full and fair compensation on your behalf.
We also understand how traumatic these crashes can be—both physically and emotionally. When you call our office, we’ll treat you with compassion, answer all your questions, and guide you through every step of the legal process.
What Is a Truck Underride Accident?
A truck underride accident happens when a smaller vehicle crashes into the side or rear of a large truck or semi-trailer and slides underneath it. These collisions are different from typical truck accidents because the smaller vehicle’s front end becomes trapped beneath the truck’s trailer.
There are two main types of underride crashes: rear underride and side underride. Rear underride occurs when a car hits the back of a tractor-trailer, often at highway speeds. Side underride crashes happen when a vehicle collides with the side of a truck, sometimes at intersections or during lane changes.
In Texas, especially around busy freight corridors like I-820, Highway 377, and the Airport Freeway, underride accidents are tragically common due to heavy commercial truck traffic and challenging road conditions.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has recognized underride crashes as some of the deadliest accidents on American roads. According to government data, thousands of lives have been lost in underride crashes nationwide because of insufficient or faulty underride guards.
Why Are Underride Accidents So Dangerous?
Truck underride accidents are among the deadliest types of crashes on the road. When a smaller vehicle slides underneath a large truck trailer, the impact often bypasses the car’s safety features, such as airbags and crumple zones.
This can result in catastrophic injuries, including decapitation, severe crush trauma, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. The front passenger compartment is often destroyed, leaving victims with life-altering harm or fatal outcomes.
According to national safety data, underride crashes cause a disproportionately high number of fatalities compared to other types of truck accidents. This is partly because many trucks either lack adequate underride guards or the guards fail upon impact.
Despite federal regulations requiring underride protection, many trucks on Texas highways, including in the Haltom City area, do not meet modern safety standards. This gap in protection directly contributes to the frequency and severity of underride crashes here.
At the Law Office of Paul Previte, we understand the unique dangers these accidents pose. Our attorneys aggressively pursue justice for victims and families who have suffered from these tragic crashes, fighting for compensation that reflects the true scale of the harm.
What Causes Truck Underride Accidents in Haltom City?
Truck underride accidents often happen because of a combination of risky behaviors, poor maintenance, and dangerous road conditions. In Haltom City and surrounding areas, certain factors increase the likelihood of these crashes.
Common causes include sudden stops by large trucks on highways like I-820 or Highway 377, where heavy freight traffic is constant. Trucks that park illegally or stall on busy roads can catch drivers by surprise, leading to rear-end collisions with underride risks.
A major contributing factor is the failure or absence of underride guards—the metal bars designed to prevent smaller vehicles from sliding under the trailer. Many trucks in the area either have outdated guards or none at all, especially older trailers and some freight companies that neglect maintenance.
Poor visibility also plays a role. Industrial zones near the Airport Freeway often have insufficient lighting and confusing signage, which can cause delayed reactions. Side underride crashes frequently happen during lane changes or at intersections where trucks have wide blind spots.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Underride Crash?
Determining liability in a truck underride accident can be complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. In Texas, those who can be held legally accountable include the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, and maintenance contractors.
The truck driver may be liable if they were speeding, distracted, fatigued, or driving recklessly. Trucking companies often face claims if they failed to properly train drivers, ignored safety protocols, or pressured drivers to violate hours-of-service rules.
Manufacturers can be responsible when underride guards are defective, improperly installed, or fail to meet federal safety standards. Maintenance contractors may also be liable if they neglected to repair or replace damaged safety equipment.
Texas law holds that all negligent parties must be identified to ensure victims receive full compensation. Because federal regulations and Texas statutes both apply, our attorneys thoroughly investigate every angle to build the strongest case possible.
If you have questions about who might be liable in your case, our experienced Haltom City truck accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte can explain your rights and options.
How Do I File an Underride Accident Lawsuit in Texas?
Filing a lawsuit after a truck underride accident involves several important steps and strict deadlines. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can bar you from pursuing compensation.
The process typically begins with a thorough investigation. Our attorneys collect evidence such as police reports, witness statements, truck maintenance records, and any available video footage. This investigation helps us identify all liable parties and build a strong case.
Next, we file a formal complaint in the appropriate Texas court. From there, both sides exchange information through a process called discovery. This includes depositions, interrogatories, and document requests.
Throughout the case, our attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte guide you step-by-step, explaining what to expect and fighting to protect your rights. We also handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel so you can focus on healing.
What Types of Injuries Are Common in Truck Underride Accidents?
Truck underride accidents often cause severe and life-changing injuries due to the intense impact and intrusion into the smaller vehicle’s passenger space. Understanding these injuries can help victims recognize the seriousness of their situation and the importance of seeking legal help.
Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): The sudden, violent impact can cause concussions, brain swelling, or permanent brain damage.
- Spinal cord injuries: These may result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the damage.
- Severe fractures and crush injuries: The force can break bones or cause limbs to be trapped or crushed.
- Internal organ damage: Often invisible without medical imaging, internal bleeding and organ trauma are frequent and dangerous consequences.
- Burns or lacerations: Sometimes caused by fire, hazardous materials, or shattered glass during the crash.
Because these injuries often require long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability, obtaining compensation through a truck accident claim is vital for covering medical bills and lost income.
Our Haltom City attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte are committed to helping clients navigate these difficult circumstances with care and expertise.
What Are Some Common and Uncommon Types of Truck Underride Accident Cases?
Truck underride accidents can happen in many different scenarios, each with unique challenges. Our attorneys have handled a wide variety of these cases and understand how to approach even the rarest situations.
Common Types of Truck Underride Accidents
- Rear-end collisions: The most frequent type where a passenger vehicle crashes into the back of a tractor-trailer.
- Side-impact crashes: Often occur when a vehicle attempts to pass a large truck or when the truck makes a wide turn.
- Parking lot or low-speed crashes: Smaller vehicles sliding under trucks in congested or stop-and-go traffic.
Uncommon But Serious Underride Accident Types
- Underride caused by defective trailer underride guards: When guards fail to deploy or break upon impact.
- Underride during lane changes on highways like Airport Freeway: Particularly dangerous due to blind spots.
- Accidents involving improperly loaded cargo causing trailer imbalance: Leading to unexpected shifts and crashes.
- Underride in construction zones with temporary barriers: Where confusing layouts increase risk.
- Crashes involving hazardous materials trucks: Which add the risk of chemical exposure or explosions.
We tailor our legal strategies based on the type of crash and its causes to maximize recovery for our clients.
Where Do Truck Underride Accidents Most Often Happen in Haltom City and Surrounding Areas?
Truck underride accidents in Haltom City and the greater Fort Worth area frequently occur along major highways and freight corridors where large commercial trucks travel daily.
Some of the most common locations include:
- Interstate 820 (I-820): A heavily trafficked loop around Fort Worth, with frequent truck traffic and high speeds.
- Airport Freeway (State Highway 121/183): This busy route serves as a main artery for freight heading to and from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
- Highway 377: A key north-south route with both rural and urban stretches, often used by trucks transporting goods.
- Local industrial areas near Haltom City: Areas with truck loading zones and warehouses see increased risk of side underride crashes.
- Intersections and ramps near major logistics hubs: Tight turns, merging traffic, and blind spots contribute to crashes here.
According to Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) statistics, these corridors have higher-than-average truck accident rates, especially underride incidents, due to heavy commercial traffic combined with passenger vehicles.
If you were injured in an underride accident on these roads or nearby, our Haltom City truck accident attorneys are familiar with these dangerous locations and know how to investigate the crash thoroughly.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Truck Underride Accident?
Victims of truck underride accidents may be entitled to compensation that covers a wide range of damages. The goal is to make sure you are financially protected from the devastating effects of your injuries and losses.
Common types of compensation include:
- Medical expenses: This covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, ongoing therapy, and future medical care.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost while recovering, including time off work and reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job.
- Pain and suffering: Monetary damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property.
- Wrongful death damages: In tragic cases where a loved one dies, families may recover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
Because truck underride accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, damages can be substantial. Our Haltom City attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte aggressively pursue full compensation and will fight insurance companies that try to minimize your claim.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Underride Accident Claim in Texas?
Time is critical when filing a truck underride accident claim. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit, or you risk losing your right to seek compensation.
However, there are exceptions depending on the circumstances, such as cases involving government entities or minors, which may extend or alter deadlines. Because these rules can be complex, it’s important to consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Delaying legal action can also result in lost evidence and weakened claims. Our Haltom City attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte act quickly to investigate your case thoroughly and preserve crucial information for the best outcome.
If you’re wondering how long you have to file your claim, contact us promptly for a free consultation to protect your rights.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Underride Accident?
Knowing what steps to take right after a truck underride accident can make a critical difference in your safety and your legal case.
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, some serious conditions like internal bleeding or concussions may not be obvious right away.
- Call 911 and report the accident. Police will document the scene and create an official report, which is vital evidence later.
- Document the accident scene if possible. Take photos of the vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Do not admit fault or make statements to the trucking company’s representatives. Anything you say could be used against you later.
- Contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you speak with a lawyer like Paul Previte and our team, the better we can protect your rights and begin investigating.
What Evidence Is Needed to Prove a Truck Underride Accident Case?
Building a strong case for a truck underride accident requires gathering clear and compelling evidence. The right proof helps establish liability and the extent of your injuries, which are crucial for obtaining fair compensation.
Key types of evidence include:
- Accident reports: Police and crash investigator reports provide official accounts of what happened.
- Photos and videos: Images of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and injuries help illustrate the severity.
- Witness statements: Testimonies from people who saw the crash can confirm facts and provide additional perspectives.
- Maintenance and inspection records: These documents reveal if the truck and its underride guards were properly maintained.
- Driver logs and company records: Evidence that a truck driver was fatigued, speeding, or violating safety regulations.
- Expert testimony: Accident reconstruction specialists can explain how the crash occurred and why the underride guard failed.
Our Haltom City attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte know how to collect and preserve this evidence effectively, ensuring nothing critical is missed during your case.
How Do Federal and Texas Laws Regulate Truck Underride Protection?
Federal and Texas laws set standards to reduce underride accidents by requiring safety devices and maintenance protocols for commercial trucks.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that large trucks must have underride guards, also known as rear impact guards, to prevent smaller vehicles from sliding underneath trailers during collisions. These guards must meet specific strength and size requirements.
Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sets design and performance standards for underride protection equipment to improve crash survivability.
Texas law enforces these federal standards and requires trucking companies to maintain their vehicles in safe working order. Failure to comply with these regulations can be a critical factor in liability during underride accident cases.
Our attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte closely examine whether all legal safety requirements were met and use violations as evidence to hold negligent parties accountable.
What Are the Common Steps in a Truck Underride Accident Lawsuit?
Filing a lawsuit after a truck underride accident involves a clear sequence of steps designed to protect your rights and maximize compensation.
- Initial Consultation: We start by discussing your accident, injuries, and goals to determine the best legal approach.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our attorneys collect accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and maintenance logs to build your case.
- Filing the Complaint: A formal lawsuit is filed in the appropriate court within Texas to begin the legal process.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and conduct depositions to uncover facts.
- Settlement Negotiations: We negotiate with insurance companies and defendants to seek a fair settlement.
- Trial: If a settlement isn’t reached, we prepare to present your case to a judge or jury.
How Can I Contact Paul Previte and the Haltom City Truck Underride Accident Attorneys?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck underride accident in Haltom City or the surrounding areas, you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. Our experienced attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte are ready to listen, provide clear legal guidance, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
You can reach us by phone at (817) 335-4357or visit our office at 6200 Airport Fwy, Haltom City, TX 76117. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
Contacting us early helps ensure your rights are protected and that we can start gathering evidence immediately. We’re here to help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
