Jackknife Truck Accidents
A collision with a semi-truck can change your life in an instant. Because commercial trucks are so large and heavy, the damage they cause is often devastating. When a tractor-trailer loses control and jackknifes, the results can be catastrophic—leaving victims with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and long-term uncertainty.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a jackknife truck accident, the most important step you can take is to understand what caused the crash and who is responsible. An experienced truck accident attorney can protect your rights from the very beginning.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A tractor-trailer is made up of two parts: the cab and the trailer. A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer swings out to the side, folding toward the cab like a pocketknife. When this happens, the truck can take up several lanes of traffic and collide with nearby vehicles.
Jackknife crashes often occur on busy highways and interstates where trucks travel at high speeds, but they can happen on any road. Every year, hundreds of drivers and passengers suffer preventable injuries in these violent crashes.
Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents
Improper Braking
Truck drivers require specialized training to handle the braking systems on large commercial vehicles. If a driver brakes too hard, too fast, or at the wrong time, the trailer can swing out of alignment and jackknife.
Speeding
A speeding truck is much harder to stop—especially when carrying a heavy load. When a driver must brake suddenly, the momentum of the trailer can cause it to skid sideways, creating a jackknife situation.
Mechanical Defects
Faulty brakes, worn tires, electrical issues, or other mechanical failures can easily lead to a jackknife crash. These problems occur when manufacturers produce defective parts or when trucking companies fail to perform routine inspections and maintenance.
Hazardous Weather
Rain, snow, and ice reduce traction and visibility. If a truck driver doesn’t adjust their speed for conditions, they may lose control and jackknife when attempting to slow down or stop.
Heavy or Improperly Loaded Cargo
When a trailer is overloaded or unevenly packed, the weight can shift while the truck is moving. This imbalance makes the trailer more likely to sway or skid, increasing the risk of a jackknife crash.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Multiple parties may share responsibility for a jackknife accident, including:
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The truck driver — if they were speeding, braking improperly, driving distracted, or making unsafe maneuvers.
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The trucking company — for poor hiring practices, inadequate training, unrealistic delivery schedules, or failing to maintain the vehicle.
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The manufacturer — if a defective part contributed to the crash.
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Maintenance crews or mechanics — if they failed to identify or repair a dangerous issue.
Your lawyer will investigate the crash, examine records, and determine who is responsible for your losses.
What If the Truck Driver Is From Another State?
Many commercial trucks travel across state lines. If an out-of-state driver causes a crash in your state, you can still file a claim locally. Companies that operate in multiple states are required to answer for negligence wherever the accident occurs.
Wrongful Death in Jackknife Crashes
If a jackknife accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Depending on your state’s laws, eligible parties may include:
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Spouses
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Children (biological or adopted)
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Parents
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Personal representatives
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In some cases, extended family or financial dependents
A wrongful death case can help recover funeral costs, lost income, loss of companionship, and other damages.
Deadlines for Filing a Claim
Every state has a statute of limitations, limiting how long you have to file a claim. Missing the deadline means losing your right to compensation altogether. Because these timelines vary by state and situation, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible.
Should You Talk to the Insurance Company?
Insurers often reach out quickly after a truck accident—but their goal is to protect their bottom line, not yours. Anything you say can be used to reduce your compensation.
Do not:
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Give a recorded statement
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Discuss your injuries
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Accept a quick settlement offer
Instead, let your attorney handle communications. They know how to stop insurance companies from downplaying your injuries or twisting your words.
How Settlement Values Are Calculated
Your lawyer will calculate the full value of your damages, which may include:
Economic damages
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Medical bills
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Future treatment needs
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Lost wages
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Reduced earning ability
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Property damage
Non-economic damages
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Loss of enjoyment of life
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Disfigurement
Severe injuries, delayed treatment, and long-term disabilities can significantly increase your claim’s value. Having a knowledgeable truck accident attorney can also make a major difference during negotiations.
Can You Negotiate With the Insurance Company?
Yes—but you should never negotiate alone. The first offer is almost always far less than what your claim is truly worth. A skilled attorney knows how to build leverage, present strong evidence, and fight for a fair settlement.
We’re Here to Protect Your Rights
If you or a loved one was injured in a jackknife truck accident, you deserve a legal team that will stand with you every step of the way. Applebaum Accident & Injury Law is committed to fighting for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Contact us (855-Call-Paul)
today for a , no-obligation consultation
