When a tractor trailer jackknifes, the trailer will fold into the vehicle, forming an acute angle with the tractor. Jackknife truck accidents are extremely dangerous to the driver and to anyone near the out-of-control vehicle. It’s common for these types of truck crashes to result in serious injuries and death. Jackknife accidents can result in a rollover, a runaway trailer or an underride collision with another.
When a tractor begins to skid, the trailer may begin to push the tractor from behind. A jackknife accident occurs if the trailer then swings out and forward while pulling the tractor backward and to the side. This is extremely dangerous for any vehicles that are around the truck as it skids, and once stopped, the jackknifed tractor trailer can still pose a risk to other vehicles. Vehicles that can’t stop in time may crash into the jackknifed truck, resulting in a devastating collision.
Trucks are typically on fast-moving highways where there is little time to avoid a stopped vehicle. If a truck crashes through a center median or veers into oncoming traffic, cars traveling in both directions to be involved in the truck accident.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a jackknife accident, including:
- icy and slippery conditions
- excessive speed on curves
- faulty brakes
- defective equipment
- improperly loaded trailers
It is important to determine how the crash occurred when determining liability. Potentially liable parties include the truck driver, the trucking company, the company responsible for loading the trailer or the truck parts manufacturer.
If you were the victim of a Texas truck accident, the reputed personal injury attorneys at Law Offices of W.T. Johnson can help you get fair compensation for your losses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor-trailer accident, please contact our offices for a free, no-obligation consultation.
