Jackknife Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers
Because trucks carrying trailers are very large long vehicles 50 feet or more carrying cargo weight of 80,000 pounds, the consequences of a jackknife accident can be devastating. Up to 5% of all truck accidents are jackknife tractor trailer accidents and should result in contact with a New York City truck accident lawyer.
Causes of JackKnife Accidents
- Truck driver locking the drive axles when braking
- Locking the steering axle brakes
- Slippery road conditions
- High speed driving
- Inclement weather
- Curves in the road
- Brake failure or other equipment malfunction
What Truck Drivers Can Do to Avoid Jackknife Accidents
- Always keep a reasonable distance behind other vehicles especially in poor weather conditions; never tailgate
- if the truck begins to skid, the driver should release the brakes and turn the steering wheel in the same direction as the skid to help avoid a jackknife
- a truck driver should not try to slam on the brakes but rather brake over a longer stopping distance
- a truck driver should not hit the brakes and swerve at the same time
Common Injuries and Damages After a Jackknife Accident
- Spinal Cord Injury
- fractures
- lacerations and internal bleeding
- head injuries or TBI
- concussion
- Wrongful Death
- Whiplash Injuries
- burns
- contusions
- injuries from seat belts
A plaintiff can recover compensation for a jackknife accident that was even partially the fault of a truck driver and or trucking company. Compensation includes
- past and future pain and suffering
- past and future lost wages
- past and future medical expenses
- and other types of damages
It is important to contact a trucking accident lawyer familiar with jackknife tractor trailer accidents. The F&A accident lawyers have experience handling all types of truck accidents, hire top safety experts, and work with renowned medical specialists to win maximum compensation for our clients.