Driving a truck is different than driving a car; there are different things to consider and different aspects that need to be taken into careful thought. A truck is built differently, has a much larger mass and is usually composed of many different parts. For a vehicle to jackknife there needs to be pivot points, which makes 18 wheeler trucks especially vulnerable.
Typically, what will occur is that the weight of the trailer will begin to push on the semi-truck itself. This will lead to the truck spinning and the entire vehicle folding upon itself into an acute angle. Once in this position, the vehicle will often lock—making it impossible for the driver to change anything. Especially in adverse weather conditions, the vehicle will begin to skid across the road and become stuck.
At Anderson Hemmat, we understand how much damage a truck accident can cause and we are fully devoted to protecting our clients from the aftermath. If they were involved in a pile-up or other multi-vehicle accident, the injuries that can result from a jackknife accident can be life-altering in nature. For this reason, it is vastly important that should you be involved in something such as this that no time is wasted in contact a personal injury attorney that you can fully trust. At our firm, we have seen time and time again how legalities can cause incredible stress on the lives of our clients and we are here to help alleviate the burden. Work with us and you will get the aid you need so that you can focus on what is truly important following a truck accident—healing.
When a semi-truck jackknifes, it looks as though it has folded itself in half—similar to your average folding pocket knife. These accidents are very common with semi-trucks and usually occur when the truck driver applies his brakes suddenly and the truck loses control. Improperly adjusted or maintained brakes can also lead to these types of accidents. In fact, the two most common reasons for a jackknifed semi-truck in the United States is due to poorly adjusted brakes or brake failure. Because most of these issues are easily prevented, trucking companies and their mechanics could be found liable for accidents associated with jackknifed semi-trucks.
Determining Fault in a Jackknife Truck Accident Situation
In most cases, drivers and their companies aren't adhering to federal regulations for brake maintenance, which is why the truck jackknifed. For example, there is a decrease in pedal pressure that the driver has noted, which means brake failure is coming up, but instead of fixing that, he or she continues to drive. Or, perhaps the driver has mentioned it to the company or their mechanic, but they have put off maintenance. This can cause the driver to accidentally brake too hard and jackknife his truck, and the result is an accident that could have been prevented.
Other Causes for Jackknifing Truck Accidents
Brake issues aren't the only reason a semi-truck can lose control and jackknife on the road. If a truck driver takes a turn too fast or too sharp, he could easily lose control and jackknife his truck. Downshifting, accelerating on a turn or little friction are also common causes of jackknifes on the road.
Regardless of the reason, you need an attorney to help you with your claim against the driver, company and any other liable party. The attorneys at Anderson Hemmat, can help you file your claim against all eligible parties in a jackknife case, and we will help you seek out maximum compensation for your case.
Why You Need an Experienced Accident Attorney
The injuries associated with an accident with a semi-truck are extensive. You could lose wages while recovering—or permanently if you are disabled from the accident. You could have extensive medical bills today and into the future, and you could suffer significant physical and mental injury. You need the assistance of an attorney to ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and expenses. The attorneys at Anderson Hemmat know the regulations for truck drivers. We can help you represent your case and receive maximum compensation. Trucking companies and insurers have their own attorneys that will try to give you the least amount of compensation as possible for your injuries. With an attorney by your side, you won't be bullied into accepting a low-ball offer.
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. No information should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. Viewing this website or submitting information does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.
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