In a recent feature on FirstCoastNews, Joe Camerlengo, founder of The Truck Accident Law Firm, shared his insights on the devastating impact of side underride crashes and the need for stronger regulations to prevent such tragedies. Camerlengo highlighted the horrific nature of these crashes, where passenger vehicles slide beneath the side of tractor trailers, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. He explained that even at low speeds, side underride crashes can be fatal since the vehicle’s windshield typically takes the first impact, offering minimal protection to occupants.
The feature story also recounts Camerlengo’s experience representing clients who suffered severe injuries in side underride accidents. He described one incident involving a pickup truck that slid entirely under a trailer, leaving nothing of the vehicle intact. He emphasized that while technology, such as side underride guards, exists to prevent these crashes, it remains underutilized in the U.S., mainly due to cost concerns and political lobbying from trailer manufacturers.
According to Camerlengo, implementing side underride guards would add about $3,000 per trailer—a cost offset by fuel savings from improved aerodynamics over time. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has found these guards 97% effective in mitigating fatalities up to 40 miles per hour, their recent report deemed the costs greater than the benefits. The American Trucking Associations also raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing these guards, citing infrastructure compatibility issues.
Camerlengo strongly advocates for more accurate data collection and an underride checkbox on police crash reports, noting that Florida and many other states do not currently track these incidents. Accurate data, he argues, would reveal the full extent of underride fatalities, potentially driving policy changes to mandate life-saving technology on all commercial trucks.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer crash, you don’t have to navigate this difficult journey alone. The Truck Accident Law Firm is committed to advocating for victims and ensuring they receive the justice and support they deserve. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of truck accident cases and is dedicated to fighting for safer roads and holding negligent parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you explore your options for recovery. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those impacted by these devastating crashes.
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