Virginia Jackknife Accidents Attorneys

Helping Jackknife Accident Victims Obtain Maximum Compensation

At Rowe Weinstein & Sohn, we understand the devastating effects that a jackknife accident can have on the lives of those involved. Jackknife accidents involving large commercial trucks can cause catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident in Virginia, you need experienced legal representation to maximize your entitled compensation.

If you were injured or someone you love was killed in a truck jackknife accident, contact us online or call (571) 486-4798 to request a free consultation with one of our trucking accident lawyers in Virginia.

What is a Jackknife Accident?

A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a large truck swings out to the side, forming an angle with the truck cab that resembles the shape of a folding pocketknife. This typically happens when a truck skids or loses control, causing the trailer to swing out uncontrollably. The truck driver may lose control of both the cab and the trailer, resulting in a highly dangerous situation on the road.

When a truck jackknifes, the trailer can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, striking other vehicles and causing widespread damage. These types of accidents are particularly hazardous due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, which can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. The force of impact from a jackknifed truck can lead to severe injuries or fatalities, particularly for those in smaller passenger vehicles.

Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but some common causes include:

• Braking Too Hard: When a truck driver slams on the brakes, especially on wet or slippery roads, the wheels of the trailer may lock up, causing the trailer to swing out to the side. This is one of the most frequent causes of jackknife accidents, particularly in poor weather conditions.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid an accident. When a truck is moving at high speeds, any abrupt braking or sudden maneuvering increases the likelihood of the trailer swinging out of control.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, ice, or sleet can make roadways slick, reducing tire traction and increasing the risk of a jackknife accident. Drivers must adjust their speed and braking in these conditions, but failure to do so can result in disaster.
• Improperly Loaded Cargo: An unevenly loaded trailer can make it difficult for a truck driver to maintain control of the vehicle. When the cargo is not properly balanced, it can shift during travel, throwing off the truck’s center of gravity and leading to jackknife situations.
• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours with little rest, leading to fatigue that can impair their reaction times and decision-making. Fatigued drivers may not be able to respond quickly enough to avoid a jackknife accident, especially in emergency situations.
• Mechanical Failures: Defective brakes, malfunctioning steering systems, or worn-out tires can also contribute to jackknife accidents. Regular maintenance is critical for preventing mechanical issues that can lead to loss of control over the truck.

Who is Liable for a Jackknife Accident?

Figuring out who is responsible for causing a jackknife accident can be complex since multiple parties may share responsibility. Common parties who may be liable in a jackknife accident include:

• The Truck Driver: If the driver was speeding, driving recklessly, or otherwise operating the truck negligently, they may be held liable for the accident. Violations of federal trucking regulations, such as exceeding the hours of service limit, can also contribute to liability.
• The Trucking Company: The trucking company may be held responsible if they failed to properly train their drivers or enforced unsafe driving practices, such as unrealistic delivery deadlines that encourage speeding or driving while fatigued. Additionally, trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their fleets, and failure to do so can result in mechanical failures that cause accidents.
• The Cargo Loader: If improperly loaded cargo contributed to the jackknife accident, the party responsible for loading the truck could be held liable. This includes situations where the cargo was not secured properly, leading to dangerous weight shifts during transport.
• Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers: In cases where a jackknife accident is caused by a mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes or tires, the manufacturer of the defective part or the company responsible for maintaining the truck may be held liable.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife accident, do not hesitate to contact Rowe Weinstein & Sohn today at (571) 486-4798.