Semi-truck accidents are some of the worst collisions on the road. The size and weight of commercial vehicles make it more likely that accidents will result in severe injuries or fatalities.
With thousands of trucks using Texas roads, collisions involving semi-trucks are inevitable. If you are struggling in the aftermath of a jackknife collision, you know the stress that comes with navigating medical bills and insurance. At Shaw Cowart LLP our experienced car accident attorneys understand your circumstances. We know how difficult it is to recover after injuries from a collision. If you or a loved one have been hurt or had your car totaled in an accident, we can help. Contact our office today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
What Happens in a Jackknife Accident
A jackknife accident occurs when a semi-truck folds in on itself with the cab and trailer coming together to form a 90-degree angle resembling a folded pocket knife.
Although all semi-truck accidents are serious, jackknife collisions are particularly severe. This is because when a truck begins to jackknife, it is almost impossible for the driver to control the vehicle. Cars close to the truck are almost certain to be hit. The truck may also roll over, hitting other vehicles or causing a load to spill onto the road.
Common Causes of Jackknife Crashes
Jackknife accidents are more likely to occur when truck drivers brake quickly. This can occur due to driver negligence, but is more likely under the following conditions:
Poor weather conditions
Jackknife crashes are more common during inclement weather. When there is rain, ice, or snow, it is more difficult for drivers to control large semi-trucks, increasing the probability of a crash.
Vehicle Malfunctions
When a semi-truck’s brakes fail it is difficult, sometimes impossible, for a driver to control the vehicle in a safe manner, resulting in serious accidents.
Poor Driving
Braking in a regular passenger vehicle is not the same as braking in a semi-truck. To properly brake, semi-truck drivers must account for long stop times due to the size of their vehicles. When semi-truck drivers break too quickly, they create a hazard on the road because the weight of the load pushes on the front tires, causing them to lock up, increasing the likelihood of a jackknife wreck.
Common Injuries
Because of the severity of jackknife accidents, parties often suffer severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Spine/neck injuries
- Concussions
What Can I Recover?
These injuries can impact injured parties for decades to come and result in extensive pain, suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages from being unable to work. Plaintiffs can recover for all of these losses if they are able to prove liability.
Establishing Liability
Plaintiffs injured in jackknife accidents must establish legal liability for their injuries or property damage. This is done by showing the following elements:
- Duty: Truck drivers owe a duty to use reasonable care when operating commercial vehicles. This includes obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions, not tailgating, etc.
- Breach: The defendant failed to do his or her duty. For example, if a truck driver is speeding in icy conditions he has breached his duty of care.
- Causation: Plaintiffs must show their injuries were caused by the semi-truck driver’s breach of duty.
- Damages: Lastly, plaintiffs must prove they suffered actual harm that can be compensated.
Injured in a Jackknife Accident? Contact Shaw Cowart LLP Today
If you or a loved one have been injured in a jackknife accident, there is no need to face the overwhelming stress you are facing alone.
The experienced attorneys at Shaw Cowart LLP are ready to assist you by helping investigate your claim, explaining your legal options, and advocating on your behalf to maximize your recovery. Contact our office today to schedule a free and confidential claim evaluation.