Castro Valley Underride Crash Involves Tractor-Trailer

Tesla Involved in Castro Valley Underride Crash on I-580

A Castro Valley underride crash involving a tractor-trailer and a Tesla sedan occurred on June 5, with unknown injuries. The accident disrupted traffic on westbound I-580 just west of northbound I-238 in Castro Valley, southeast of Oakland, at approximately 1:05 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

Castro Valley Underride Crash Traps Driver in Vehicle

The collision left both vehicles blocking lane one, with the Tesla wedged under the semi-trailer. The Tesla came to rest on the center divider, and the vehicle’s doors could not be opened on either side, preventing the driver from exiting. Emergency responders were called to extricate the trapped driver.

Investigation Being Conducted to Determine Cause of Accident

The Tesla sustained major front-end damage and required towing. At this time, the extent of the injuries has not been reported. The CHP traffic crash unit is conducting an investigation into the cause of the accident. The crash caused significant delays in the area, and drivers were advised to use alternate routes where possible.

Causes of Underride Accidents

A Castro Valley underride crash occurs when a smaller vehicle passes under the rear, side, or front of a large truck or trailer, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These crashes are particularly dangerous because the safety features of passenger vehicles, such as crumple zones and airbags, are often bypassed when the vehicle’s cabin goes under the higher frame of the truck. Major causes of underride accidents include:

• Poor visibility and marking: Trucks that lack adequate lighting, reflectors, or have dirty or non-functional lights are harder to see, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. 
• Poorly marked or parked trucks: Big rigs stopped on the shoulder without flares or reflective triangles increase the risk.
• Insufficient or defective underride guards: Rear impact guards are often not strong enough or improperly maintained, allowing vehicles to slide underneath in a collision. 
• Ineffective guards: Issues such as improper sizing, installation errors, and lack of durability can render guards ineffective.
• Sudden stops and slow-moving trucks: When a truck stops abruptly or moves slowly, especially on highways, following vehicles may not have enough time to react, leading to rear underride crashes.
• Driver error and negligence: Truck drivers merging or turning without properly checking blind spots can trap vehicles underneath the trailer.
• Dangerous maneuvers: Jackknifing, U-turns, or running stop signs can obstruct traffic and cause side or front underride collisions.
• Driver error: Distracted or fatigued driving by either truck drivers or other motorists increases the risk.
• Mechanical failures and poor maintenance: Brake failure or other mechanical issues can prevent trucks from stopping in time, causing front or rear underride accidents.

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Legal Assistance for Injuries in Alameda County Car Accidents

I’m Ed Smith, and I’m an Oakland car accident lawyer. Injuries from a Castro Valley underride crash mean you might be able to recover compensation if the other driver was at fault. Contact us today at (510) 631-0200 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can also reach out to us online. We provide free consultations, whether in-person at our office or virtually, to review your case and explore your potential options for pursuing compensation.

Photo attribution: Pixabay

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