A vehicle with two independent points can sometimes fold in on itself at the point of separation due to an accident, referred to as a “jackknife” accident. The cab and trailer turn around at the connecting point to create a V-shaped layout that is 90 degrees. Because the swiveling resembles folding a pocket knife, the incident received the nickname “jackknife.”
When a vehicle is carrying something heavy or towing a trailer, it sometimes loses control. You might suffer severe consequences like losing vehicle control, rollover, or collision with other cars. Speak with a personal injury attorney right now if you have any questions about accidents in general or if you have been in a jackknife accident. To learn more, click here.
How Can A Jackknife Accident Occur?
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Table of Contents
Speeding too much
It is tough to stop a large truck simultaneously, especially when it moves faster than 55 mph. The chances of the trailer swinging out of control increase with speed. It takes time to apply brakes and stop the truck safely when speeding over 55.
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Sharp Turnings
Commercial trucks usually have no trouble navigating slight turns. The truck drivers need to be concerned about the sharp turns. The likelihood of the trailer swinging out of control increases with a steeper curve and a bigger trailer.
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Weather-related issues or slippery roads
Due to the size and weight of trucks, even a slight slide might result in a jackknife accident. The whole truck could slide if it loses grip between it and the road surface. Evaluate the driver’s background in driving in various weather conditions.
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Inability or defective equipment
Jackknife incidents can also result from negligent driving, recklessness, hydraulic failure, or break failure. There is a significant risk of an accident if the driver is distracted and loses control of the vehicle. The truck driver should analyze the road condition appropriately and maintain proper speed. It is not the driver’s fault if the truck faces brake or hydraulic failure issues.
Jackknife accident damages and causes
Trucks are huge and incredibly heavy. Because of this, truck accidents can result in disastrous outcomes. On interstate routes, commercial vehicles may carry 28-foot double trailers weighing up to 80,000 pounds—a considerable amount of weight. Some studies show that approximately five percent of truck accidents involve jackknife incidents. This weight can do severe damage if there is a mistake or incident while traveling. In addition to major injuries to the body and significant property damage, jackknife accidents can be fatal.
There can be victims on the road who had nothing to do with the truck, but because of the accident, they might get injured, too. Speaking to a professional and getting legal help immediately is essential.