What Is an Override Accident?

Accidents between a large truck and a small passenger vehicle can be catastrophic. Although most truck drivers are cautious on the road and do their best to avoid accidents, other truckers are not so careful. As a result, serious truck accidents can occur.

An override accident is a particularly dangerous type of truck collision. This accident occurs when a passenger car is trapped underneath a larger commercial truck. Override accidents can be very serious and often lead to severe injuries and devastating fatalities.

The Serious Impact of Override Accidents

Commercial trucks can be feet taller and weigh thousands of pounds more than the average motor vehicle. Because of this size difference, it is possible for a truck to ride over smaller cars. leading to an override accident.

An override accident is very similar to a rear-end collision, where one car collides with the back of another vehicle. However, because the rear vehicle is a larger truck, the consequences can be direr. Because the truck is bigger, it can drive over the end of the other vehicle. 

As a result of the force and trauma associated with these collisions, override accidents are very dangerous and can be fatal. Victims often experience the following injuries:

• Traumatic brain damage
• Broken bones 
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Cuts, bruises, and abrasions
• Burns and scarring

What Causes Override Accidents?

There are many factors that can contribute to overriding accidents. Some of the most common causes involve the actions of the driver or his or her employer.

• Negligent Driving: Many override accidents happen because truck drivers fail to drive their vehicles safely. Truckers need to be vigilant and alert at all times; however, some drivers are highly distracted, fatigued, or even under the influence of alcohol and drugs. These factors can make it easy for a trucker to fail to see other motorists and cause an override accident.
• Poor Weather: Hazardous weather can lead to an override accident, especially in wet and slippery conditions like rain and snow. Truck drivers have a duty to drive their vehicles safely in these conditions. If a driver fails to take proper safety precautions, an override accident can occur.
• Improper Maintenance: Trucking companies have a responsibility to inspect their vehicles regularly and perform maintenance when necessary. However, some companies fail to take these important steps. Any mechanical failures or defects could lead to an override accident.

What to Do After an Override Accident

If you or a loved one were involved in an override accident, you can feel very overwhelmed. These accidents can lead to extensive damage and have a major impact on your life and your family’s lives. In these situations, the truck driver deserves to be held accountable for his or her actions.

In Washington, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit or an insurance claim against the truck driver and his or her employer. After the collision, it is important to take the following steps to protect yourself and preserve evidence for the claim:

• Call 911 and report the accident to the police.
• Seek emergency medical attention.
• If you are able, document evidence by taking photographs and speaking to witnesses.
• Gather the truck driver’s contact and employer information, if you can.

Once you receive the medical care that you need, contact a Washington truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer will evaluate your case and take the first steps toward filing your override accident claim.