A jackknife truck accident is a serious crash where a truck’s trailer swings out at a sharp angle, often causing major damage and catastrophic injuries. Knowing who is responsible can help victims recover compensation for their medical costs and other damages.
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If you or a loved one has injuries or damages from a jackknife truck accident, seek legal counsel from an experienced South Bend truck accident attorney. They can help you identify your legal options.
Pfeifer, Morgan and Stesiak can help you understand what steps to take to move your potential case forward. We have helped our clients obtain millions in compensation for their truck accident cases. Determine what legal steps you should take next during a free consultation.
Request a free case consultation today: (574) 444-0741.
What Parties May Be Liable for a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a jackknife truck accident is complex. Multiple parties could potentially become responsibile, depending on the specific circumstances of the crash.
Liability for Driver Errors
Truck driver negligence is a primary cause of jackknife accidents. Mistakes that can lead to liability include:
- Speeding: Excessive speed makes it difficult for drivers to control large vehicles, especially during sudden turns or when road conditions change. Drivers who fail to adjust speed appropriately can be held directly responsible for resulting accidents.
- Improper Braking: Abrupt or aggressive braking can cause a trailer to swing out, creating a jackknife motion. Experienced drivers should know how to brake smoothly and maintain vehicle control.
- Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to decreased reaction times and poor decision-making. Truck drivers who violate hours-of-service regulations and drive while exhausted create significant safety risks.
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile devices, eating or engaging in other distracting activities while operating a commercial vehicle can quickly lead to catastrophic accidents.
Liability for Mechanical Failures
Not all truck accidents result from driver error. Mechanical issues can also cause jackknife incidents, such as:
- Brake System Failures: Faulty or poorly maintained brake systems can prevent drivers from stopping or slowing down effectively.
- Suspension Problems: Worn suspension components can compromise a truck’s stability and control.
- Tire Defects: Blown tires or treads can cause sudden vehicle instability.
- Steering System Failures: Malfunctions in the steering system can make it difficult for drivers to maintain control of the truck.
- Transmission Issues: Problems with the transmission can affect the truck’s ability to change gears smoothly, leading to sudden shifts in speed or direction.
- Lighting and Visibility Problems: Faulty headlights, taillights or signal lights can reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents, especially in low-light conditions.
In these scenarios, potential liable parties might include:
- Trucking companies responsible for vehicle maintenance
- Truck manufacturers
- Maintenance service providers
- Parts manufacturers
Liability for Cargo Issues
Improperly loaded or secured cargo can significantly contribute to jackknife accidents. Some of the scenarios that may occur due to improper loading may include:
- Unbalanced weight distribution can make trucks unstable during turns or sudden maneuvers.
- Overloaded trailers increase the risk of mechanical failure and reduce driver control.
- Unsecured cargo can shift during transit, creating sudden weight imbalances.
- Using insufficient or faulty securing devices, such as straps or chains, can fail to keep the cargo in place.
- Stacking cargo too high or in an unstable manner can lead to shifts and imbalances.
- Not adhering to proper loading procedures and regulations can result in unsafe cargo conditions.
- Transporting liquid cargo without proper containment can cause trucks to become instable and increased risk of jackknife accidents.
Potential liable parties in cargo-related incidents include:
- Trucking companies
- Loading dock workers
- Cargo loading contractors
- Shipping companies
Liability for Poor Road Conditions
Sometimes, external factors beyond driver or vehicle control contribute to accidents. Poor road conditions could lead to accidents if the following scenarios happen:
- Unexpected potholes or uneven surfaces
- Inadequate signage or road markings
- Construction zone hazards
- Insufficient traffic management
In these cases, potential liable parties might include:
- Local government entities
- State transportation departments
- Construction contractors
- Road maintenance companies
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive After a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Victims of jackknife truck accidents may be eligible for various compensation types. However, compensation will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
Some car crash victims may be eligible for compensation that covers:
- Medical Expenses: Current and anticipated future treatment costs
- Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If you change the industry that you work in due to your injuries
- Property Damages: Includes vehicle damage and personal belongings from the accident
- Pain and Suffering: Physical injuries that cause discomfort and emotional distress
- Rehabilitation Costs: Covers treatment plans that include physical or speech therapy
What Evidence Do I Need to Strengthen My Potential Case?
After a jackknife truck accident, victims need to have evidence to strengthen their potential case and assist them with seeking compensation. Some of the evidence victims and their lawyers should gather include:
- Police Reports
- Medical Records
- Witness Statements
- Truck Driver Logs
- Vehicle Maintenance Records
- Cargo Loading Documentation
- Photographs of the Accident Scene
- Expert Accident Reconstruction Analysis
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD)
- Surveillance or Dashcam Footage
Contact a South Bend Jackknife Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accident cases are significantly more complex than those involving cars and other smaller vehicles. Hiring a knowledgeable truck accident attorney helps to level the legal playing field. If we represent you, we are prepared to fight to protect your interests and negotiate with the insurance company for the maximum possible compensation. We are also prepared to go to trial if a settlement agreement cannot be reached.
At Pfeifer, Morgan and Stesiak, we also provide a free consultation to discuss your situation and clarify any concerns you may have about your potential case. If we represent you, we have the staff and resources to fully manage your legal case, and there are no upfront costs or fees. We only get paid if you do.
Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results. (574) 444-0741.
