Understanding Jackknife Truck Accidents

 Posted on November 08, 2021 in Trucking Injuries

A runaway semi-truck is one of the scariest sights on the road, but it is made even scarier if the truck begins to jackknife.

The term “jackknife” describes the phenomenon of a runaway truck folding at the joint that connects the rig to the trailer. The end shape, with the rig and trailer facing opposite directions, vaguely resembles a type of foldable utility knife sometimes called a “jackknife.”

A jackknifing truck has a unique capacity for roadway destruction. When a jackknife occurs, it becomes almost impossible for the driver to maneuver or direct the vehicle in anyway. The truck is sent careening down the road, its trailer swinging violently like a giant pendulum, smashing anything that crosses its path.

Unfortunately, thousands of people are injured or killed by jackknifing trucks every year. According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, jackknifes account for 10 percent of all truck-related occupant fatalities.

The consequences of a truck accident for victims and their families can be devastating. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help victims access the legal system and obtain compensation for their losses.

What Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents?

Jackknifing truck accidents have many different causes, but they are most often the result of:

-          Inclement weather, such as ice or snow, that slickens the roads.

-          The driver stopping too quickly or swerving to avoid a hazard

-          A mechanical defect in the truck

Jackknife Accident Lawsuits

Jackknifing truck accidents cause an unparalleled level of destruction. If victims survive, they are often left with severe injuries or permanent disabilities.

Thankfully, people injured in truck accidents have rights under North Carolina law. If the injuries were caused by negligence or wrongdoing, they can file a personal injury lawsuit against those responsible. A successful suit may result in a financial award known as damages.

A plaintiff can receive damages to cover losses related to:

-          Medical care

-          Lost wages

-          Loss of future earnings

-          Loss of consortium

-          Loss of life’s enjoyment

-          Pain and Suffering

-          Mental trauma

Contact a Will County Personal Injury Lawyer

The first step towards vindicating your rights is contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer.

Michael J. Lichner - Will County Personal Injury Lawyer is committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims. Our firm has a proven history of achieving tremendous results for our clients, setting them on the path back to normalcy.

We understand that each client has unique needs and concerns, which is why we offer personalized legal representation that prioritizes the client, not the bottom line.

If you need a Will County personal injury attorney that fights for his clients, call Michael J. Lichner - Will County Personal Injury Lawyer at 815-730-1977 today for a free initial consultation.

Source: 

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/data-and-statistics/large-truck-and-bus-crash-facts