The Dangers Posed by Jackknife Truck Accidents
All auto accidents need to be taken very seriously. Victims of auto accidents may experience lasting injuries. Some injuries, such as those that affect the spine, and affect an accident victim's ability to perform their normal job duties or even do basic tasks. In such cases, it is important to consider meeting with a legal representative to hold the negligent party responsible for the accident occurring. Do not try to go it alone--a personal injury attorney is crucial for successful legal outcomes.
Right now, our law firm would like to consider jackknife truck accidents and why these kinds of big truck collisions need to be taken so seriously.
What is a jackknife truck accident?
A jackknife truck accidents refers to instances in which the trailer that a big truck is hauling skids to the side into adjacent lanes and then moves forward into a perpendicular angle to the truck itself. The truck and the trailer may continue to fold into themselves in such accident in a fashion similar to a folding knife, hence the name.
What causes jackknife truck accidents to occur?
The most common causes of jackknife truck accidents are as follows:
- Mechanical failure/equipment failure
- Poor maintenance of the vehicle
- Improper braking of the vehicle
- Icy roads
- Slick roads
In very rare instances, a truck driver may intentionally jackknife his or her vehicle as a way to slow it down. This is for emergency measures only when the brakes malfunction.
Why Jackknife Truck Accidents Are So Serious
With large trucks and trailers, the dangers posed by such accidents are numerous. When a trailer skids, it extends into other lanes, colliding with vehicles that are adjacent to the truck. Many cars can be affected that are just next to or around the jackknifing truck.
This is very serious on highways and major roadways as the truck and trailer may block all the lanes on the road. This is a potential hazard to vehicles that are approaching the truck and do not have enough time to stop or swerve out of the way. As more and more vehicles have to react to the jackknifed truck, the greater potential there is for additional collisions.
Injuries and Fatalities Following a Jackknife Truck Accident
Because of the mass of big trucks and the collisions that can occur, major injuries such as lacerations, broken bones, and paralysis are all likely. As more vehicles become involved in the collision, the more serious the injuries may be.
It is not uncommon for fatalities to result from jackknife truck accidents simply given the size of the truck and trailer and the force that is generated from major collisions with large objects.
Why Our Legal Team Is Crucial for the Litigation Process
Given the severity of these kinds of accidents, it should be clear why you need skilled truck accident attorneys to help you with your lawsuit. Our legal team will fight diligently to hold the tuck driver or the trucking company responsible for their negligent actions.
Learn More About Truck Accident Litigation
If you would like to learn more about serious auto accident litigation and how our legal team can help you in your time of legal need, be sure to contact our Long Island personal injury attorneys today. Our entire team will fight diligently for all of your legal entitlements and ensure that your legal rights are well represented in a court of law.
