What Does it Mean for a Truck to Jackknife?
November 6, 2022 | Sagi Shaked | Truck Accidents
The population of Miami-Dade county is closing in on 2.8 million people and is growing steadily. A large population means an excess of vehicles on Miami’s streets and highways. Unfortunately, this translates into frequent car accidents and truck accidents. Truck accidents can be extremely dangerous, especially in a case involving a jackknife.
What Does It Mean To Jackknife?
We’ve all heard the term jackknife in accident reports, but what is the precise meaning? Picture a commercial truck that is pulling a trailer. In a jackknife accident, the trailer behind the truck moves toward the body of the truck, forming the shape of a “V.”
Once the trailer has started to jackknife, the driver will have no control over it. If the truck is on a highway, serious damage can occur as other vehicles on the road can be stuck between the truck and trailer as the trailer closes in on them.
What Causes a Trailer to Jackknife?
Jackknife accidents can arise in a variety of scenarios. Typical causes are the truck being driven at too high of a speed, weather or road conditions, or a problem with the cargo (could be overloaded or not properly secured). Other causes are:
- Driving too quickly around a curve
- The truck driver brakes too suddenly
- There is a defect in the truck mechanisms
- The driver is impaired, sleepy, and/or distracted
- Changing lanes improperly and failing to yield the right of way, among other traffic infractions
Jackknife truck accidents can also result in a rollover accident, in which the truck overturns. In these cases, the truck could crush the passenger vehicles involved.
Who Could Be at Fault in a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Aside from the driver of the truck, there are other parties that may also be liable for injuries and property damage caused by a truck accident. They include:
- The trucking company that employs the driver
- The company that made the truck and its parts
- Companies that work on road construction
- The government agencies in charge of the roads
- Other drivers on the road
- Those involved with shipping and loading equipment
An experienced jackknife accident attorney can help you make sure you include all potential parties in any claims for compensation.
Jackknife Truck Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries
Involvement in any vehicle accident can be scary and potentially serious in terms of injuries. An accident involving a large commercial truck, potentially moving at high speeds, can be terrifying and extremely dangerous.
The resulting injuries from this type of accident can be catastrophic and leave a person permanently impaired or disabled. These injuries include brain damage and spinal cord injuries, and damage to internal organs. Amputations could be needed.
What Compensation Is Available in Jackknife Accident Cases?
You can recover damages if you were injured in a jackknife truck accident. These damages can be economic (like medical bills and lost wages) and non-economic (like pain and suffering, scarring, and disfigurement). Other damages that fall under these categories can include:
- Long-term care and nursing care
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- A reduction in your quality of life and your ability to enjoy life
Sadly, fatal injuries can result from a jackknife truck accident. In these cases, the surviving family of the deceased may receive wrongful death benefits.
Contact a Miami Jackknife Truck Accident Attorney with Questions
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Miami jackknife truck accident, chances are that you have been through a traumatizing experience and may have suffered serious injuries as well. It’s wise to consult with a seasoned Miami jackknife truck accident attorney to help you build a case and then pursue compensation from all available options.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Miami, FL and need legal help, contact our Miami truck accident lawyers at Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers
20900 NE 30th Ave Suite 715
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191