Wisconsin Underride Accident Lawyer

Trust a Wisconsin Underride Accident Lawyer to Pursue Compensation After a Catastrophic Truck Crash

Underride Accident Attorney in Wisconsin, WI

Underride accidents are some of the worst motor vehicle incidents to be in. They can result in significant property damage, major injuries, and even death. Whether you’re a bicyclist who was caught under a truck or a trucker trying to respond to a crash, get help from a Wisconsin underride accident lawyer, like Craig Steger, as soon as you can.

What Is an Underride Accident?

When a large truck collides with a smaller car, bicyclist, or even a pedestrian, the other party can sometimes get pulled under the body of the truck. This is what’s called an underride accident, and it stems from the extreme size difference between trucks and other vehicles.

In rare situations, underride crashes may result in no injuries at all. However, getting pulled under a big truck means being put in further danger from the wheels and the weight of the truck. Cars can even be completely crushed in these accidents.

Many states don’t keep explicit track of underride accidents, making it difficult to determine how frequently they occur or how deadly they are. Large truck collisions are often deadly, though, with nearly 6,000 fatalities in the U.S. throughout 2022.

Causes of Underride Accidents

Underride accident cases can vary wildly, and each one should be treated as a unique case. Understanding common causes, though, can help you both try to avoid them and respond to them more quickly. Many of these crashes cause injuries, making up some of the more than 24,000 injury crashes Wisconsin had in 2024.

Many times, underride crashes are caused by negligent maintenance, unsafe driving, or road hazards. Other common causes of these accidents can include:

  • Sudden slowing or stopping on a major road
  • Large trucks making U-turns
  • A vehicle following a truck too closely
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failure of the truck to have appropriate guards in place
  • A truck skidding or jackknifing in poor road conditions
  • A truck swerving into oncoming traffic

No matter what caused the accident you were in, you may be entitled to compensation, especially if you were not mainly responsible for the crash. Accidents in big cities, like Milwaukee, or on small rural roads can be equally serious.

Protecting Against Underride Crashes

Because of their severity, the federal government has long been concerned with preventing underride accidents. Underride accident laws require most big trucks to have guards on their rear, making it more difficult for other vehicles to go under them. These same guards can also be used on the side or the front.

Some companies refuse to use these guards, though, or they won’t properly maintain them in Wisconsin. If you were in an underride crash where the truck didn’t have the proper guards, you should speak with a lawyer to see what compensation you could be eligible for.

What Happens When You Hire an Underride Accident Lawyer?

Underride crashes in the Badger State are complex situations. They can involve significant injuries, and any crash with a large truck can be difficult to determine liability for. When you choose to work with Craig Steger, he can help you move forward by:

  • Having you explain the details of your underride accident case
  • Going over whatever evidence you have of the accident and the resulting damages
  • Explaining who might be liable for the accident
  • Negotiating with insurance, employers, manufacturers, and other interested parties
  • Representing you in any hearings or meetings that arise from your case

While you can attempt to approach these cases alone, it is incredibly difficult to do so, especially while trying to recover from the trauma of a crash. Instead, work with a Wisconsin underride accident attorney who understands what kind of support you need.

Your Road to

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FAQs

Is Underinsured Motorist Coverage Required in Wisconsin?

While uninsured motorist coverage is required by law in Wisconsin, underinsured motorist coverage is not. However, it is often recommended to have this coverage anyway, just in case you end up in an accident with one or more uninsured motorists. Proactively obtaining this coverage can help you deal with unexpected and difficult situations.

Why Should You Never Admit Fault in an Underride Accident?

Admitting fault in an underride accident, such as a crash along U.S. 51, can hurt your chances of getting compensation. However, you should not lie about the circumstances of a crash to seek more compensation. Instead, be honest about the situation with your attorney. We can determine what information is important and how to build your case.

Who Is Liable for Underride Collisions in Wisconsin?

Underride liability can be difficult to determine in Wisconsin accidents. When large trucks get into crashes, not only can the driver be held responsible, but their employer or even the truck’s manufacturer might also bear liability. Since determining fault can be such a challenge, you will want to hire an underride accident lawyer to navigate your situation.

What Is the Most Common Type of Underride Accident?

The most common type of underride accident is a rear underride, where a smaller vehicle goes under the larger truck from the back. This can happen when a truck suddenly brakes on a busy road or when a car is speeding. All types of underride accidents can be serious, even deadly, so caution should be taken to try to prevent them.

Craig Steger: Wisconsin Underride Accident Lawyer

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an underride accident in Wisconsin, which was ranked as having the 14th-worst roads in the country, you want to hire an attorney who knows what you’re dealing with. Craig Steger has over 20 years of experience in law, working with clients like you across the rural Midwest. He grew up in this area and knows the ins and outs of rural life here.

Due to our specific focus, we can provide each case with thorough attention and support. Our local law firm can prioritize your needs and create a plan that supports your goals. When necessary, we can advocate for you in the courtroom to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t try to deal with a complex and potentially life-changing situation on your own. Contact our office now to learn more about what support we can offer you. 

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