Trucks can cause a lot of different kinds of accidents on Houston roads, from rollover accidents to drowsy or distracted driving crashes. Jackknife accidents are some of the worst because the truck driver often completely loses control, leading to the destruction of everything in the truck’s wake. If you’ve been hurt due to jackknife truck accidents in Houston, help is available. A loyal truck accident lawyer could help you fight for your rights and get the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
What is Jackknifing?
Jackknifing happens when a large truck towing a trailer loses control. The trailer swings out to the side of the truck, creating an effect that looks like a folded-in pocketknife. While some truck manufacturers have devised anti-jackknife devices to prevent it from happening, they are not standard in every large truck. Jackknifing can be dangerous to other drivers and vehicles on the road, colliding with the vehicles and sending them careening off the road.
What Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents?
A lot of different things could cause jackknife truck accidents. A few of the most common causes include:
- Poor road conditions or obstructions
- Sudden braking
- Driver error or negligence
- Improper loading or cargo that is too heavy
A combination of factors could cause jackknife truck accidents. Whatever the underlying cause, jackknifing can be life-changing to anyone involved in the accident. Severe injuries like brain injury, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, and internal organ damage can all occur; and in some cases, death or paralysis can even happen. In addition to physical injuries, victims of jackknife truck accidents could experience economic losses like loss of income and psychological damage, including post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety.
How Could a Lawyer Assist With Jackknife Truck Accidents?
If a victim is grappling with the after-effects of a jackknife truck accident and isn’t sure how to proceed, a Houston lawyer could step in and help craft a strong case that allows the victim to get compensation for their pain and suffering. They could find valuable evidence that helps establish fault, including police reports, witness statements, information from medical professionals, and photos and videos from the accident scene.
Attorneys serve as a valuable advocate and ally to anyone involved in a jackknife truck accident, outlining the legal process and explaining what is required at every turn. Many times, the court will overlook the needs of the victim altogether in favor of a large trucking company. However, with legal assistance, a victim will be able to not only recover from their injuries and trauma but move forward with confidence and clarity.
Connect With a Houston Lawyer After a Jackknife Truck Accident
Getting injured due to someone else’s negligence can be a traumatizing event that takes months or years to properly recover from. However, the legal team at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP stands ready to help you with jackknife truck accidents in Houston. We can investigate the company and the truck river to perform a thorough investigation, so you can be confident in your case. Contact us today to learn more about how we can fight for your rights and help you return to life as you know it.
