Jackknife Truck Accidents

Atlanta Truck Accident Attorneys

Truck accidents can be extremely destructive and often result in serious injuries or death. Knowing that truck drivers are supposedly trained and held to a higher standard than the average car driver, truck accident victims may have difficulty coping with their injuries. Not all accidents can be avoided; however, if a truck driver was negligent or a trucking company was negligent and an accident resulted, they can be held responsible for their action.

If you or a loved one were involved in an Atlanta trucking accident, contact our experienced trucking attorneys for a free consultation.

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifing is a type of accident that is unique to large trucks. A jackknifing accident occurs when a truck brakes suddenly. If the cab slows down before the trailer, the heavier rear portion of the truck begins to push the cab, which will swivel at an angle similar to a retractable blade (hence the term, “jackknifing”). This can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and go into a skid.

A truck skidding into oncoming traffic at an angle can be disastrous for many different vehicles at once. This is why jackknife accidents are such a real concern. Trucking companies ought to hire trustworthy drivers and train them properly to avoid these types of accidents. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Jackknifing Liability

If a jackknifing accident was caused by a drunk truck driver, an improperly licensed operator, or an improperly maintained tractor trailer, the victims could be eligible to file an trucking negligence lawsuit. If a trucking company knowingly hires a driver that could endanger others, they may be liable for their trucking company negligence, a very serious issue in jackknifing accident cases. Likewise, a trucker that is operating under the influence or has truck driver fatigue from refusing sleep could be considered negligent, and therefore liable for any resulting injuries. 

Our trucking accident attorneys know how to handle the large insurance companies that work with truckers, and how to investigate the trucking companies for negligence. All trucks should be properly maintained, and a truck driver’s log books should be kept accurate to avoid truck driver fatigue. If a trucking company fails to perform its duties, it could be liable for medical bills, vehicle damage, pain and suffering, and lost wages that result from a jackknifing accident.

Victims of trucking accidents have a right to competent legal representation to ensure they receive the financial compensation to which they are entitled. If you have been the victim of a jackknife accident, speak with an experienced Atlanta truck accident attorney before you settle with the insurance company. Our attorneys will guide you and help you to protect your rights to full compensation. Fill out a free, no obligation case evaluation form today to find out if we can help secure the legal protection you deserve.