Anytime a truck gets into a wreck, there is a possibility that severe injuries can occur. However, jackknife truck accidents in Hitchcock are particularly dangerous because they can cause widespread damage to people in many different vehicles.
If you or your loved one sustained harm in a jackknife collision, our truck collision attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris might be able to help you. We could help you investigate what happened and let you know if pursuing legal action in a civil personal injury lawsuit is a viable option for you.
What are Jackknife Collisions?
A jackknife trucking collision occurs in Hitchcock when the cab of a tractor trailer truck slows or stops but the trailing tractor’s momentum makes it continue to move past the cab. When the trailer skids parallel to the cab, the resulting shape of the cab and trailer resembles a pocketknife. If the truck driver cannot stop the skid, the truck can slide across many lanes of traffic on a highway and swing into and potentially crush multiple vehicles in its path. In addition, if the truck rolls over, it could spill its cargo, resulting in a dangerous situation for others on the road.
Because jackknife collisions are so catastrophic, the chances of severe and life-altering injuries occurring are high. Our skilled and compassionate local lawyers understand how traumatic jackknife accidents can be. We could work closely with you to help you obtain the financial recovery you need to help you recover both physically and emotionally.
Causes of Jackknife Crashes
Sadly, most jackknife trucking crashes in Hitchcock could be prevented and only occur due to negligence.
Truck Driver Error
Although all motorists need to pay attention to their driving duties, truck drivers need to be particularly vigilant because they are driving commercial vehicles that are significantly larger than other vehicles. If they are not paying attention and need to suddenly brake, they could risk a jackknife. Truck drivers also need to adhere to speed limits, especially around tight curves. If a truck driver is in a rush to get their delivery completed on time and tries to make a turn while traveling too fast, they could cause a jackknife.
Maintenance Problems
If a trucking company fails to keep its vehicles in proper working condition, such as by not taking its trucks for regular inspections and maintenance, the company could be held responsible for a jackknife that occurs due to poor vehicle maintenance.
Equipment Problems
Trucks can malfunction due to inherent mechanical defects. The manufacturer of the vehicle or any replacement parts could be liable if a faulty part caused the truck to jackknife.
Loading Problems
Tractor-trailer trucks have a higher center of gravity. Companies that load cargo should take precautions to ensure the truck stays as balanced as possible. If a vehicle is overloaded or improperly loaded, it can be unbalanced, which could cause it to jackknife.
Our local legal team at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris could skillfully investigate to determine what caused the jackknife and who bears potential legal liability. We could help you fight for fair compensation.
Call a Hitchcock Lawyer About Jackknife Trucking Collisions
Jackknife truck accidents in Hitchcock can cause devastating harm. Our attorneys care about helping you, and we support you throughout the legal process as we investigate what happened and negotiate with insurance companies. We could help you hold the responsible companies and people accountable for their negligent and reckless actions. Call our attorneys at the Schechter, Shaffer & Harris law office today.
