Jackknife Truck
Accident Lawyers
Jackknife truck accidents devastate lives. Our skilled attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Jackknife truck accidents devastate lives. Our skilled attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve.
A jackknife truck accident unleashes 80,000 pounds of uncontrolled steel across the highway in seconds. The massive semi-truck whips sideways like a blade, crushing everything in its path—cars, guardrails, and lives. For survivors, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming.
If you or a loved one has survived a jackknife truck accident, you don't have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced truck accident attorneys have helped countless victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Get Justice after Your Jackknife Truck Accident
Speak to a truck accident attorney today and explore your options.
What is a Jackknife Accident?
Imagine this: you’re driving along the highway, focused on the road ahead, when suddenly you notice a massive semi-truck begin to lose control.
In the blink of an eye, the trailer swings out from the cab, twisting at a sharp angle. Your heart races as you watch in disbelief, understanding the danger unfolding.
What you have just witnessed is a jackknife accident and it can be catastrophic for those sharing the road with the tractor-trailer. The sheer size and weight of an eighteen-wheeler make this type of accident incredibly hazardous, putting everyone on the road at risk.
A jackknife accident occurs when a semi-truck's cab and trailer begin moving independently of each other. The massive trailer's momentum fights against the cab's forward motion, causing the trailer to swing sideways. This creates the distinctive V-shaped angle that gives these crashes their name—like a folding pocketknife blade swinging open with devastating force.
Understanding the mechanics of a jackknife accident is crucial. Truck jackknifes typically occur when:
- The trailer's tires lock up while the cab continues moving forward
- The cab's tires lock up and the trailer's momentum pushes the truck forward
What makes these accidents particularly dangerous is their unpredictability and scope. The trailer can swing out unexpectedly, blocking multiple lanes of traffic and potentially causing the truck to roll over.
What are the warning signs a truck might jackknife?
- Sudden braking and reversing by surrounding vehicles
- The trailer swinging to one side
- The cab moving in a different direction from the trailer
- Rapid deceleration causing drive axle lockup
The physics behind these accidents is complex, involving factors like weight distribution and traction loss.
The consequences of a jackknife accident can be devastating. When the trailer swings out, it can crush smaller vehicles in its path, leading to catastrophic injuries and preventable deaths.
Take the first step on your path to justice.
Connect with a Law Firm for Truck Safety attorney today.
What Causes a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Understanding what causes a jackknife truck accident can help you protect your rights if you're ever involved in such an incident. These dangerous accidents often result from an interplay of various factors, and identifying the cause is crucial for determining liability.
Brake-related issues are among the most frequent triggers of jackknife accidents. When a truck's brakes malfunction or don't engage properly, it creates an imbalance between the tractor cab and trailer, causing the trailer to swing outward. This can happen when drivers brake too hard or when brake maintenance has been neglected.
There is a higher risk if any of these factors are also at play:
Weather and Road Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice significantly reduce traction between tires and road surfaces, making jackknife accidents more likely.
Improper Loading: Unevenly distributed or improperly secured cargo can cause a trailer to become unbalanced and sway during transport.
Speed-Related Issues: When trucks travel too fast, especially around curves or on slippery roads, the trailer can swing out dangerously.
Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers who work long hours are at risk of falling asleep at the wheel.
Equipment failures pose another significant risk. Issues with tires, suspension, steering, or the coupling between the cab and trailer can lead to loss of control. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for preventing these mechanical failures.
When it comes to driver error, several critical mistakes can trigger a jackknifed truck. These include following too closely behind other vehicles, making sudden lane changes, or failing to adjust driving behavior for adverse conditions. Inexperienced drivers are particularly vulnerable—they may not recognize early warning signs or know how to respond appropriately to challenging situations.
Proper cargo loading plays a crucial role in preventing these accidents. Federal law requires proper weight distribution and secure loading practices.
When cargo shifts during transport, it can create an unstable condition that makes the truck more difficult to control, especially during sudden maneuvers or braking.
In many cases, multiple factors combine to cause a jackknife accident. For example, poor weather conditions might become catastrophic when combined with excessive speed or improper braking techniques.
Who Is Liable in a Jackknife Collision?
In the aftermath of a jackknife truck collision, determining liability isn't as straightforward as you might think.
Multiple parties could be responsible for your injuries and damages. That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced jackknife truck crash attorney who can identify all potentially liable parties.
Liable parties in your jackknife truck accident case may include:
The truck driver: for negligent driving practices or failing to conduct proper inspections
The trucking company: responsible for driver actions and proper vehicle maintenance
Third-party maintenance facilities: accountable for inspection and repair quality
Cargo loading companies: liable for improper loading or securing of cargo
Vehicle or parts manufacturers: responsible for defective components
When seeking compensation, trucking companies can be held vicariously liable for their drivers' actions. This means you may have a claim against both the driver and the company, increasing your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
Your jackknife truck accident lawyer will need to conduct a thorough investigation to establish liability.
This investigation typically includes examining crucial evidence such as:
Driver-Related Evidence:
- Hours-of-service logs
- Post-accident drug and alcohol test results
- Pre-trip inspection reports
Vehicle-Related Evidence:
- The truck's "black box" data
- Maintenance and repair records
- Post-accident vehicle inspections
Federal and state laws require truck owners to maintain their vehicles and keep them safe for road use at all times. This requirement becomes particularly important when mechanical failures contribute to jackknife accidents.
For example: If brake failure caused your accident, the owner of the semi-truck — whether it's the trucking company or a leasing company — could be held liable for the damages.
Remember that determining liability usually requires conducting a comprehensive investigation. That's why it's vital to retain an attorney with experience handling jackknife truck crashes who can help identify all responsible parties and build a strong case for your compensation.
Referrals & Co-Counsel
Involved in a Crash?
No other law firm knows trucks quite like us. Our trucking law expertise and trial experience allow us to win multi-million-dollar results year after year.
Our team of truck accident attorneys works tirelessly to help your family find justice in the wake of a catastrophic truck crash.
Referrals & Co-Counsel
No other law firm knows trucks quite like us. Our trucking law expertise and trial experience allow us to win multi-million-dollar results year after year.
Involved in a Crash?
Our team of truck accident attorneys works tirelessly to help your family find justice in the wake of a catastrophic truck crash.
Who Is at Fault in a Jackknife Truck Crash?
Determining fault in a jackknife truck crash requires careful analysis of multiple factors and an understanding of state and federal laws.
Your jackknife truck crash attorney will need to prove fault through various types of evidence, including Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), maintenance records, and expert analysis.
Police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage can also play crucial roles in establishing fault percentages.
Remember, you can pursue legal action against any person, entity, or organization that contributed to your truck accident.
This means your case isn't limited to just the truck driver—you can seek compensation from multiple parties based on their respective percentages of fault.
What Legal Steps Should You Take After a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Taking immediate action after a jackknife truck accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Your first priority should be your safety and well-being, but protecting your legal rights is equally crucial for your future.
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Contact law enforcement for an official accident report
- Document the accident scene if possible
- Notify your insurance provider
- Contact an experienced jackknife truck accident lawyer
Before speaking with any insurance adjusters, gather essential documentation to support your case. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly. Accepting such offers could prevent you from pursuing further compensation if you develop serious injuries later.
Critical Evidence to Preserve:
- Police accident report with scene descriptions
- Medical records and bills
- Witness statements
- Photos and video footage
- Employment and salary records
- Vehicle repair estimates
Working with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and financial analysts can strengthen your case. These specialists help quantify damages and establish liability, which is crucial for securing fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Your jackknife truck accident lawyer will help you navigate the complex legal process, including investigating the accident, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing maximum compensation for your losses.
FIND a jackknife truck accident lawyer near me
How to File a Lawsuit After a Jackknife Truck Wreck
Filing a lawsuit after a jackknife truck accident can be a complex process involving several steps. Your lawyer can guide you through the process, which generally includes the following:
1. Consultation and Case Evaluation: Meet with an attorney who can evaluate your case, advise you on your legal options, and estimate the potential compensation for your injuries and damages.
2. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as medical records, police reports, and witness testimonies to establish fault and liability.
3. Filing the Complaint: Your lawyer will file a formal complaint against the at-fault parties, outlining the damages you’re seeking.
4. Negotiation and Settlement Attempts: Many cases are resolved through negotiation without going to trial. Your lawyer will negotiate with a defendant's insurance company, working toward a settlement that covers your losses.
5. Preparing for Trial (If Necessary): If the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, your lawyer will prepare your case for trial, presenting evidence and arguments to seek a favorable verdict.
Working with personal injury lawyers for jackknife truck crashes, accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and financial analysts can strengthen your case by quantifying damages and establishing liability.
These specialists help prove the full scope of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, which is essential for securing fair compensation.
Matt and Traci are some of the kindest and hardworking legal teams I have ever met. They helped me during a very difficult time in my life after my accident [and made me feel] comfortable, safe, and heard. I am grateful for them in so many ways and...could not recommend this firm more.
Thank you for teaching me the rules and giving me confidence. My first trucking case ever received a seven-figure verdict. It is a testament to the lessons you provide to lawyers across our country.
A pleasure to work with and the best at identifying coverage when others can’t!
I could not be more confident in these attorneys and their ability to competently and compassionately prosecute cases on behalf of their clients.
As an attorney, I’ve been very fortunate to learn and work with Michael Leizerman on many serious truck accident cases. He is considered one of the best trucking attorneys in the country. His knowledge and compassion continue to impress me. In short, he is a fantastic lawyer.
I'm well respected nationally as a lawyer in a different field of law. When I have a large catastrophic truck crash case, I hire The Law Firm for Truck Safety as co-counsel because they are so skilled in this area of law.
How to Find the Best Trucking Attorney for Your Jackknife Accident Lawsuit
Finding the right attorney can make all the difference in your personal injury case’s outcome. Here are some key factors to consider when searching for a lawyer to handle your jackknife truck accident case:
- Experience in Truck Accident Cases: Look for attorneys who specialize in truck accident claims. They understand the complexities of these cases and the unique challenges in proving liability.
- Track Record of Successful Settlements and Verdicts: Review past case results of a law firm to see if your attorney has a history of obtaining substantial compensation for their truck accident claims.
- Client Reviews and Testimonials: Look for client feedback to gauge the lawyer's reputation, communication skills, and dedication to client satisfaction.
- Availability and Commitment: Choose an
experienced attorney for your jackknife truck crash who has the time and resources to dedicate to your case. Jackknife truck accident cases can take time. Having an attorney who is fully committed to your case can increase your chances of success. - Transparency and Communication: An effective lawyer will keep you informed throughout the process, explaining complex legal issues in a way that’s easy to understand and providing regular updates on your case’s status.
The right jackknife truck accident law firm will guide you through the legal process and provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Did you Know?
At The Law Firm for Truck Safety, five of our lawyers hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). No other personal injury law firm in the country has as many lawyers with CDLs as The Law Firm for Truck Safety does.
Free Trucking Injury Case Review
Contact The Law Firm for Truck Safety to Take the First Step Toward Recovery and Justice
Searching for the best lawyer for jackknife truck accidents? It can be challenging to find a lawyer for jackknife truck accident cases who can secure you fair compensation. At The Law Firm for Truck Safety, our team has recovered over half a billion dollars ($600,000,000) for truck accident victims and their loved ones. Let us put our experience to work for you.
While you focus on recovery, our experienced truck accident attorneys will:
- Investigate the crash and preserve critical evidence
- Handle aggressive insurance companies
- Calculate the full value of your current and future damages
- Fight for maximum compensation for your injuries
- Hold all parties accountable and work to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
Jackknife truck accidents can devastate families financially, physically, and emotionally. Don't wait to get help. Evidence disappears quickly in truck accident cases, and strict legal deadlines apply.
With offices in Ohio, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Illinois, and Wyoming, and satisfied clients around the country, our jackknife truck accident law firm is ready to stand by your side from start to finish.
Get the case outcome you deserve — contact us today to schedule your free case review. CALL TODAY: (800) 628-4500