Large commercial trucks are a distinct presence on the roads and highways around Nashville. These large vehicles dwarf passenger cars and SUVs and can cause devastating damage and injuries when they crash. To make matters more serious, certain types of accidents are unique to tractor-trailers and semi-trucks. These accidents are hazardous for motorists in smaller vehicles, and they can result in life-changing injuries.
After an accident with a commercial vehicle, you need legal representation you trust. These cases are often complicated and involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and even the truck manufacturer. At Bednarz & Bednarz, we take on tough truck accident claims and protect the rights of our injured clients.
Protecting Your Rights after a Serious Jackknife Crash
Many commercial trucks are “articulated vehicles,” which means the tractor and the trailer are two separate parts. These parts are connected by a coupling device that allows the truck to rotate, enabling it to make turns. While a coupling device is necessary for the operation of these vehicles, a failing coupling device can cause a truck to “jackknife.”
A jackknife accident happens when the trailer, which is supposed to stay behind the tractor, swings out to the side, folding like a pocketknife. When a long trailer swings out perpendicular to its intended lane, it will likely crash into any cars in adjacent lanes. Furthermore, a jackknifed trailer can often cause a runaway truck scenario, in which the driver is unable to slow down or stop. The trailers can even cause a commercial truck to roll over, especially when traveling at higher speeds. These truck accidents can leave devastation in their wake.
Causes of Jackknifed Trucks
What causes a trailer to move from its intended position behind the truck suddenly? There are many possible causes of jackknifes and many potentially liable parties. The following are some common reasons for jackknife accidents:
- The driver hits a slippery road when going too fast
- If the brakes on the drive wheels lock up for any reason while the truck is moving
- The driver takes a turn or curve too fast
- Improperly secured cargo shifts and throws the trailer off balance
- A driver tries to brake too quickly from a high speed
- The driver swerves or overcorrects
Once your attorney determines the cause of a jackknife accident, they can identify which parties should be responsible for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Contact Our Accident Attorneys in Hendersonville Today
Jackknife truck accidents can cause severe injuries to motorists, and truck accident victims have necessary legal rights. These cases can be highly technical, and insurance companies can be challenging to deal with, so you need an experienced truck accident lawyer from Bednarz Law on your side. Call 615-256-0100 for more information. You can also contact us online.
