While federal law requires underride guards on the rear of most commercial trucks, side underride guards remain a subject of ongoing debate. In 1998, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) began requiring rear guards on trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds.
However, side underride guards are not yet mandated nationwide despite evidence showing their effectiveness in preventing fatalities. Some states have taken steps to address this gap.
At Patterson Law Group, we believe these regulations should be expanded nationwide. As San Antonio accident lawyers with extensive experience in semi-truck accident cases, we are proud to advocate for stronger safety measures and stand up for victims of underride accidents.
Who Can Be Held Liable in an Underride Truck Accident?
Determining liability in an underride truck accident can be complex. Depending on the specifics of the case, multiple parties may share responsibility.
Some of the potentially liable parties include:
- The Truck Driver: If drivers were speeding, driving while fatigued, or failed to follow traffic laws, they could be held accountable for causing the accident.
- The Trucking Company: They might share responsibility if the trucking company failed to properly maintain its fleet or neglected to install rear or side underride guards.
- The Manufacturer: If a defect in the truck’s underride guard or another component contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
- Other Drivers: In some cases, another driver’s actions, such as cutting off the truck or causing a multi-vehicle collision, may have led to the underride accident.
As your accident attorney in San Antonio, we will identify all potentially responsible parties and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
Steps to Take After an Underride Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in an underride truck accident, there are critical steps you should take to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene: If you can, take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your vehicle, the truck, and any surrounding property.
- Get Contact Information: Obtain the contact information of the truck driver, any witnesses, and the responding police officers.
- Consult with an Experienced Attorney: The sooner you involve a San Antonio underride truck accident lawyer, the better. We will begin working on your case immediately, preserving key evidence and dealing with the trucking company and its insurers.
At Patterson Law Group, we take pride in helping victims of truck accidents recover the compensation they deserve. We understand the challenges you are facing and will guide you through the legal process with compassion and skill.
How We Can Help
As your semi accident attorney in San Antonio, Texas, we will handle every aspect of your case, including:
- Conducting a Thorough Investigation: We will gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and truck maintenance records to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: We will aggressively negotiate with the insurance companies to ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.
- Litigating Your Case if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.
We believe no victim should bear the financial burden of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—if we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in an underride truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Patterson Law Group today to speak with a San Antonio underride truck accident lawyer. We will provide a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Call us now or fill out our online form to get started. We are here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.