Unraveling the Sources of Truck Jackknife Accidents
When a commercial truck is involved in a jackknife accident, they are involved in one of the most dangerous incidents that can occur on our roads. Catastrophic damages are possible.
There are various factors that contribute to truck jackknife accidents, and injury claims connected to these events can be complicated, but a Boca Raton auto accident lawyer will provide you with the legal representation you need.
Contributing Factors to Truck Jackknife Accidents
A truck jackknife is typically prompted by a large commercial truck skidding. What happens next is the trailer swings out, which forms an angle resembling the letter “L” or a jackknife, hence the name. This situation is particularly dangerous because the accident can result in a hazard for multiple lanes of traffic, causing multi-vehicle collisions and chaos.
While accidents, including truck jackknife events, can happen for a wide range of reasons, common factors that have contributed to Florida jackknife accidents include the following.
- Poor weather. When there are dangerous weather conditions, such as slippery roads due to rain, the likelihood of a truck jackknife is greatly increased. Reduced traction makes it challenging for a truck driver to maintain control of both the truck and the trailer.
- Driving too fast. Operating a truck at a speed that is unsafe for the road conditions and exceeding safe speed limits can lead to loss of control or abrupt steering maneuvers, causing a truck to jackknife.
- Sudden braking. When a truck driver applies the brakes abruptly, especially on slick surfaces, the trailer can skid. Proper braking techniques are crucial to drivers operating trucks safely.
- Mechanical failures. Should a mechanical future occur, the truck driver will have difficulty controlling a truck and trailer. Faulty brake systems, worn-out tires, and malfunctioning steering mechanisms can all lead to a loss of control.
- Imbalanced load. Unevenly distributed cargo that shifts during transit destabilizes a truck and trailer. This imbalance can make controlling the vehicle difficult to impossible, leading to a jackknife.
- Inexperienced drivers. Operating a commercial truck is not the same as driving a passenger car, it requires specialized training. Poorly trained drivers or drivers with inadequate experience may not know how to react in emergency situations, elevating accident risks.
- Uneven road surfaces. Poorly maintained roads, including roads with potholes and debris, are hazardous to all drivers, commercial trucks included.
If you are seeking compensation after a truck accident, know that these cases often involve multiple parties, including trucking companies and insurance companies, so having a knowledgeable legal advocate by your side can make a difference in the outcome of your case.
Talk to a Commercial Truck Accident Attorney
To get your claim or case started, connect with a Boca Raton auto accident lawyer. Reaching out for a consultation will give you an opportunity to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Then, you can decide if hiring an attorney makes sense for you.
Can an attorney help you after a Deerfield Beach or Pompano Beach jackknife accident? Talk to the accident lawyers at Leifer & Ramirez. Book your consultation today, call 561-660-9421.
