Jackknife Truck Accident

Weighing as much as 80,000 pounds, large commercial trucks are one of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. Some trucks also carry hazardous materials, making them even more dangerous. A truck jackknife accident is one of the most common types of trucking accidents. These types of trucking accidents are often traumatic and deadly.

What is a Jackknife Accident?

Jackknifing occurs when the trailer of a truck slides around into the cab of the truck, forming an acute angle where the cab and trailer face different directions. 18-wheelers are prone to jackknifing due to their size and weight.

In these types of accidents, the driver has little control over the vehicle, and collisions with other cars and objects is likely. When the truck jackknifes, it may end up in an oncoming traffic lane or sideways between lanes. Should you be near a truck when this happens, you’ll be fortunate to get out of the way.

What Causes a Truck to Jackknife?

The most common causes of a jackknife truck accident are:

• Driver error
• Improper use of the brakes or slamming on the brakes
• Unsecured cargo
• Unsafe lane changes
• Slick roads

Generally, truck accidents are caused by human error, equipment failure, improper maintenance, road or weather conditions, or a combination of these factors. Inexperienced drivers are more prone to jackknifing. Experienced drivers often better understand the dynamics involved in properly steering, lane-changing, braking, and maneuvering the vehicle with different loads and in different road and weather conditions.

Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney

If you were injured in a jackknife truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your vehicle damages and injuries. If you or someone you know has been involved in a trucking accident, we can help you get the justice you deserve. Contact Saladino & Schaaf today or call us at 270-444-0406 (Paducah Office) or 270-753-1529 (Murray Office) to schedule a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but the clock is ticking.