Among the most dangerous and complex types of motor vehicle wrecks, jackknife truck accidents happen when the trailer of a truck swings out to form an angle resembling a folding pocketknife. The cab slows before the trailer, but the trailer does not brake, causing it to swing to the side, possibly even passing up the cab. As a result, the trucker loses control over the vehicle, which may travel across a roadway, off of the road, and through multiple lanes of traffic. The consequences can be devastating, leading to severe injuries and significant disruption.
At The Law Offices of David W. Holub, we understand the challenges individuals face after these accidents, and pursuing justice for those affected is our priority. If you have been injured in a jackknife truck accident in Merrillville, we may be able to help.
Understanding Jackknife Accidents
Negligence is at the heart of most jackknife accidents. Trucks are massive—truckers must be exceptionally careful when driving because their size and construction make them particularly vulnerable to accidents. Braking too hard on slick or uneven surfaces, improperly distributing weight in the trailer, and driving so fast that it is impossible to control the trailer are some of the leading causes of these accidents.
Merrillville jackknife accidents are especially hazardous because they often involve multiple vehicles, with the truck sending cars pinging around the roadway like balls on a pool table. The force and number of accidents increase the risk of serious harm like head trauma, spinal injuries, and broken bones. The sheer force of the accident increases both the likelihood of injury and the likelihood that injuries will be severe.
Head trauma is common because blunt force impact from the collision can lead to concussions or traumatic brain injuries. Damage to the spinal cord or vertebrae can cause partial or full paralysis. The force of impact frequently results in fractures, crush injuries, damage to internal organs, or amputations. While the injured person may suffer the most, family members may suffer as well due to an injured individual’s inability to provide household support or companionship.
Causes of Jackknife Accidents
Like most other motor vehicle accidents, Merrillville jackknife truck accidents usually stem from negligence. Understanding negligence means understanding the standard of care for all of the potentially liable parties. Truck drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles with care. Speeding, aggressive driving, or improper braking techniques can quickly lead to a jackknife scenario.
Trucking companies must ensure their vehicles are safe for the road. Failing to maintain brakes, tires, or other crucial components increases the risk of jackknifing. In addition to the liability of truck owners, maintenance companies may be liable for improper maintenance of semi-trucks. Third-party cargo loaders can bear liability if they unevenly distributed the cargo in the trailer. Loaders need to ensure the cargo is loaded safely and securely because unstable loads make jackknifing more likely. Still, truckers are also responsible for checking on loads before they start driving.
Rain, ice, or uneven roads can lead to losing control, contributing to jackknife wrecks. In these cases, other parties could potentially be responsible for not making adjustments for bad weather or preparing for the possibility of slick roads. Plus, the government agencies in charge of road maintenance could share responsibility. It is possible for the injured person to recover from more than one party.
Liability depends on duty. If a driver acted negligently, such as by speeding or failing to adjust to road conditions, they may be held accountable. Employers are responsible for adequately training their drivers and maintaining their fleets. If a failure to inspect or repair the truck contributed to the accident, the maintenance team could share liability. Incorrectly loaded trailers can destabilize a truck, leading to jackknifing. We thoroughly investigate every aspect of a case to ensure all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.
Talk to a Merrillville Lawyer About Jackknife Truck Accidents
Pursuing compensation requires focusing on recovering damages for injuries, medical treatment, and the emotional toll caused by the accident. Types of compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of services. Each case is unique, and we develop tailored strategies to maximize recovery for our clients.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a jackknife truck accident in Merrillville, reach out to The Law Offices of David W. Holub. Pursuing justice and ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable are our main objectives. Call today to schedule a consultation.