How Can Truck Driver Negligence Cause a Jackknife Accident?

Accidents involving semi-truck are more common than you can imagine. Every year around 500,000 semi-truck accidents happen in the United States alone and it is speculated that by 2030, truck accidents will become the 5th largest cause of death in the country. Semi-truck accidents can happen due to number of different reasons and some of these reasons may even end up in a jackknife accident.

What Is A Jackknife Accident?

A Jackknife accident refers to an accident involving a semi-truck where the front cab of the truck and the back trailer curve at a 90 degrees angle from each other. As these trucks are big and can cover massive space on the road, sometimes other cars also run into the truck while it has also gone through a jackknife accident.

Causes of Jackknife Accidents

There are many different reasons that may cause jackknife accidents. It can be caused by a mechanical problem with the truck or due to external factors on the road. One of the most common causes of jackknife accidents is negligence by the driver. If the driver is more careful then most of the other factors can be managed. Even in cases where there is a mechanical issue, sometimes it’s the driver who doesn’t run regular checks on the truck thus making it more dangerous for the road. Let’s take a look at some of the causes of jackknife accidents that may happen due to negligence by the driver.
• The first reason is a straightforward one. When the driver drives carelessly and recklessly then that can end in a jackknife accident.
• Exceeding the speed limit is never safe. If the truck driver drives at a faster speed than it is allowed on the road or faster than how it should be in a certain weather then that can also cause a jackknife accident.
• If the truck driver is driving under influence of alcohol and drugs then that can also be a major reason for an accident. Consuming such things can blur the driver’s visions and the driver may not even think straight. This is why it is advised to never driver after you are drunk.
• If the driver is tired or hasn’t had enough sleep. This is why drivers should be well rested before they embark on a long journey on their truck.
• Sometimes a truck driver may have to push the brakes suddenly to avoid hitting other vehicles or other things on the road. Sometimes this sudden braking experience ends up in a jackknife accident. The truck can also skid into a jackknife position if the driver uses the wrong brakes.

Who Is Liable In a Jackknife Accident?

Different parties can be liable in a jackknife accident. Once you start investigating a jackknife accident, you start realizing whose fault it actually was. The trucking company, automobile manufacturer, Cargo Company and other parties associated with the whole journey can all be liable in a jackknife accidents given the reason of the accident points towards them. The same way if after knowing more about the accident, you realize that it was the driver’s fault then you can pursue the driver or the trucking company for any money damages that the accident may have caused you.
If you or any of your loved ones have been injured or your property has been damaged in a jackknife accident then you can sue the driver or the trucking company for money damages. We can help you get the compensation that you so rightfully deserve. So if you are looking for legal help to pursue the driver or the trucking company for money damages then you can need to get in contact our office today at 915.852.0500.