Oct 29th, 2025
Paulozzi Joseph

Few traffic accidents are as devastating as a truck underride crash. When a car slides beneath a tractor-trailer, the results are often catastrophic. Victims may suffer severe head or neck trauma, permanent disability, or fatal injuries. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, our Cleveland truck accident lawyers have seen the life-altering effects of these collisions and understand the urgency of holding the right party accountable. We represent victims and families throughout Ohio, including Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, and Akron, to secure justice and full compensation after serious truck accidents.

Understanding Truck Underride Accidents

An underride accident happens when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a large commercial truck and becomes trapped beneath the trailer. These incidents often occur on highways, at night, or when visibility is poor.

Common causes of underride crashes include:

  • Lack of or defective underride guards on the trailer
  • Sudden braking or improper lane changes by the truck driver
  • Poorly marked or unlit trailers
  • Unsafe truck parking on road shoulders
  • Driver fatigue or distraction
  • Inadequate maintenance of lights and reflective tape

Even a momentary lapse in attention can turn deadly. The sheer weight and height of a tractor-trailer mean that safety failures or negligent operation can have tragic consequences for Ohio motorists.

When the Truck Driver or Company May Be Liable

Determining fault in an underride crash requires a detailed investigation. Our Ohio personal injury attorneys at Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni gather evidence such as crash scene photos, electronic logging device (ELD) data, and maintenance records to identify negligent actions.

A truck driver or trucking company may be legally responsible if:

  • The driver failed to use hazard lights or reflectors when stopped
  • The truck was parked illegally on a highway or roadside
  • The driver was fatigued, impaired, or distracted in violation of federal safety regulations
  • The company neglected maintenance, leading to non-functioning lights or reflective markings
  • The trailer lacked an underride guard or had one that was poorly designed or not properly installed

Under Ohio’s comparative negligence law (O.R.C. § 2315.33), even if a driver of the smaller vehicle shares partial blame, compensation may still be available as long as they are less than 51% at fault. Our legal team carefully builds cases to show how the truck driver’s or company’s negligence directly contributed to the crash.

Product Liability and Third-Party Negligence

Sometimes, fault lies beyond the truck driver or carrier. If an underride guard fails during impact, the manufacturer of that equipment may be liable under product liability laws. Likewise, if a maintenance contractor neglected inspections or a cargo loader created unsafe conditions, these third parties may also share responsibility.

At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, we identify every liable entity to maximize recovery for our clients. Complex cases often require expert accident reconstruction and coordination with federal trucking regulations, which our team handles with precision and experience.

What Compensation May Be Available

Victims of underride crashes often face overwhelming financial and emotional burdens. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

  • Medical expenses and ongoing treatment
  • Lost wages and future earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Our Cleveland truck accident lawyers fight tirelessly to secure maximum compensation and ensure victims can rebuild their lives after tragedy.

Why Choose Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers?

  • Decades of combined legal experience representing Ohio accident victims
  • Millions recovered for clients across the state
  • Personalized attention and aggressive advocacy from start to finish
  • Offices in major Ohio cities for your convenience
  • No legal fees unless we win your case

When you trust our legal team, you gain dedicated advocates who understand how to hold trucking companies, insurers, and manufacturers accountable.

Take Legal Action Before Time Runs Out

Ohio law limits the time you have to file a truck accident claim. Under O.R.C. § 2305.10, most victims have two years from the date of the crash to pursue compensation. Delaying action can make it harder to gather critical evidence, such as black box data or maintenance records.

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck underride accident anywhere in Ohio, now is the time to take action. Our experienced team at Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers will investigate your case, identify all responsible parties, and fight for the justice you deserve.

Don’t Wait to Get the Help You Need

The aftermath of a truck underride accident can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Cleveland truck accident lawyers are ready to protect your rights, whether your crash happened in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, or anywhere across Ohio. With proven results and compassionate advocacy, we help families find accountability and financial relief after devastating truck collisions.

Schedule your free consultation today with Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers. You pay nothing unless we win. Call 800-LAW-OHIO (800-529-6446) or reach out online to discuss your case. If you were injured in a truck underride crash in Ohio, our team is here to help you pursue full justice and recovery.

 

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