Jackknife trucking accidents are caused by a loss of control that makes a trailer move in a different direction from the cab of the truck. There are many possible causes, including adverse weather conditions, driver error, or inadequate vehicle maintenance, but jackknifing is almost always preventable.
If you’ve experienced property damage, personal injury, or suffering due to a jackknife truck accident, call Jacob Emrani to speak with an experienced lawyer about your options. We’re California’s truck accident experts, and we’ll fight for compensation that covers more than your medical bills. You deserve to be paid for the emotional hardship, loss of work, and damage to your personal property. We don’t just work for our clients — we win cases.
What Is Jackknifing?
In short, “jackknife truck meaning” refers to a truck pulling a trailer that has lost control and folded in on itself. This often begins with the front of the vehicle skidding, while the trailer continues to move forward. This causes the trailer to swing out while pushing against the cab, forming a characteristic “V” shape, like a jackknife. Once this happens, the driver will struggle to steer or stop their vehicle, especially if the load is unbalanced, often resulting in a serious accident.
Why Do Trucks Jackknife?
There are several reasons a truck driver will lose control of a trailer. The most common include:
Braking Mistakes
The primary cause of jackknifing is braking suddenly and unevenly, which can cause the brakes on the cab or trailer to lock up or cause the truck to lose traction, especially when road conditions are less than ideal or when the driver starts braking in a curve. An experienced driver will instinctively know when to ease up on the brakes and gently accelerate to regain control, but this skill develops through practice and training.
Speeding
Increased momentum due to high speeds reduces the driver’s ability to stay in control. Driving too fast around corners or on a hill can cause the trailer to swing, and the continued forward inertia will cause the trailer to keep moving even as the cab slows down. Combined, these factors create the perfect environment for a jackknife to occur. Truck drivers need to retain a steady pace at or below the road’s posted speed limit to maintain safety as they haul their load from one point to another.
Weather Conditions
The California Department of Transportation advises drivers to always pay attention to changing weather conditions before hitting the road, especially during the wet, snowy, and slippery winter months. Reduced traction on the road can cause a trailer to start swinging as the wheels skid on water, ice, or compacted snow, resulting in a jackknife situation. If the roads are especially slippery, the cab will also slide, making it even more difficult for the driver to regain control of the vehicle.
Improper Loading
An even weight distribution is crucial when loading a truck’s trailer. The rule of thumb is to distribute approximately 60% of the weight at the front of the trailer to minimize side-to-side swinging and to properly secure the load to avoid sudden weight shifts.
While heavier loads can make a truck feel more secure and stable on the road, overloading the trailer can also cause serious balance issues, making the trailer prone to loss of control during braking or while turning.
Mechanical Failures
Defective brakes, blown tires, hydraulic issues, steering system failure, and suspension problems are all common issues that could cause a jackknife to occur. Commercial vehicles should be well-maintained and receive regular servicing. This will prevent mechanical failures from occurring, reducing the number of dangerous situations the driver faces during their workday, including jackknifing.
Driver Error
Negligent actions like driving while impaired, distracted driving, or failing to adjust speed for road conditions are all reasons a jackknife will occur. All drivers should keep their attention on the road and practice safe maneuvers. A split-second error could mean the difference between life and death for others on the road, making it all the more important for truck drivers to stay focused and reduce their speed.
Who Is Liable for a Jackknife Truck Collision?
Jackknife truck accidents are not always the driver’s fault. Sometimes, they’re put in a dangerous position without knowing it due to faulty loading, poor training, or because the company or vehicle owner failed to maintain the vehicle properly.
Every case is unique, but if you were injured in an accident involving a large commercial vehicle, our knowledgeable and experienced lawyers are here to help determine the cause. We’ve won multiple multi-million-dollar lawsuits against trucking companies, securing the maximum compensation for pain and suffering for those affected by commercial vehicle accidents.
What To Do if You Were Injured in a Jackknife Trucking Accident
After a serious accident, it’s difficult to think clearly. There are four steps to take immediately after any motor vehicle incident.
- Step one: Seek medical attention. Get checked by a medical professional and document all injuries and treatments.
- Step two: Document the scene. Take photos and videos of the vehicles, damage, and injuries, if it’s safe to do so.
- Step three: Report the accident. File a police report and avoid admitting fault to insurers.
- Step four: Speak with an attorney. Contact the Law Offices of Jacob Emrani to help pursue full compensation.
Contact The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani Today
Contact Jacob Emrani lawyers today if you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident. We’ll go over what it means to be in “jackknife accident’s”, help you understand your rights, and work with you to get the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
We’re the Los Angeles area’s trusted legal representation, providing personal injury legal services to people throughout Northern and Southern California and the Inland Empire. Call (888) 912-7115 to set up your no-cost case evaluation and find out what your case is worth.