Jackknife accidents – are they really as dangerous as adventure movies make them seem? Absolutely.
In the bustling city of Miami, with its constant flow of commuters, tourists, and commercial traffic, truck accidents are unfortunately all too common. Among the most dangerous types of truck accidents is the jackknife accident. These catastrophic accidents can lead to massive multi-vehicle pileups, severe injuries, and even fatalities.
At Brooks Law Group, our experienced team of commercial vehicle accident lawyers has seen firsthand how devastating these crashes can be. If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife truck accident, it’s critical to understand your rights, how these accidents happen, and how you can protect yourself on the road.
What is a jackknife accident?
A jackknife accident occurs when a large truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming a sharp angle with the cab. The resulting situation resembles the folding of a pocketknife and often causes the trailer to sweep across multiple lanes of traffic. Crashing into nearby vehicles and causing chain-reaction collisions is almost inevitable.
Due to the size and weight of semi-trucks, jackknife collisions are particularly hazardous and can lead to devastating injuries, extensive property damage, and even death. These accidents usually block entire highways and require emergency response teams to manage the aftermath.
Why and how do these accidents happen?
Several factors can cause a jackknife accident, but they usually involve some combination of speed, road conditions, driver error, or equipment failure. Common causes include:
Sudden Braking
If a truck driver slams on the brakes too quickly, especially on an uneven or slick surface, the trailer’s momentum can force it to swing out of alignment with the cab. This scenario may be seen when a truck tries to avoid running a red light, a vehicle in front stops too suddenly (or moves into the truck’s lane), or when a truck driver poorly plans a stop or turn and is driving too quickly.
Slippery Roads
Miami’s weather can shift quickly, especially during hurricane season. Wet roads from rainstorms reduce tire traction, increasing the risk of skidding and loss of control. That lack of control can easily lead to a jackknife accident.
Speeding Can Cause a Jackknife Accident
Speeding and sudden braking are two major causes of jackknife truck accidents on Miami’s roads.
Driving too fast, especially while carrying the heavy load of a trailer, can make it difficult for a truck driver to maintain control. Taking a curve too quickly or failing to slow down in heavy traffic can contribute to accidents.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
When a trailer is overloaded or the cargo isn’t distributed evenly, it can affect the truck’s stability and increase the risk of swaying, tipping, or jackknifing.
Driver Error
Truck drivers must have specialized training to operate commercial vehicles safely, but they’re ultimately responsible for their decisions and behavior. Driving fatigued, under the influence of a controlled substance, or distracted driving can have devastating consequences and lead to a jackknife accident.
Understanding these accidents is important, but knowing how to protect yourself from them is vital. As a driver on South Florida’s roads, where should you start?
Protect yourself from a jackknife accident
While you can’t control how truck drivers operate, you can reduce your risk by driving defensively and staying alert around large trucks. Here are some tips for Miami drivers:
- Keep a safe distance. Avoid driving directly next to or behind large trucks, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.
- Avoid sudden braking or lane changes. Never cut in front of a truck and slam on your brakes. Trucks require longer stopping distances and also have extended blind spots.
- Be extra cautious in wet or windy conditions. In bad weather, trucks are more prone to losing control.
- Watch for signs of swaying when driving near semi-trucks and large-scale commercial vehicles. If you see the trailer starting to swing or the truck drifting, create distance immediately.
- Report unsafe drivers. If a truck appears to be speeding, swerving, or driving aggressively, pull over in a safe location and report it to authorities. It’s also wise to file a DOT (Department of Transportation) complaint.
Even with safeguards in place, you can’t always protect yourself from an accident. That’s where we come in.
What should you do if you’re injured in a jackknife accident?
- Call 911 immediately. Request medical assistance and make sure you get an official police report.
- Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor and don’t warrant transport by ambulance, get checked by medical professionals on your own. Some injuries (like whiplash) don’t show up immediately. You need those medical records to build a strong case!
- Document the scene with photos and video if possible. Include photos of property damage to your vehicle and other vehicles, the accident scene, injuries, skid marks, and even road conditions.
- Gather contact information from all other parties, including nearby witnesses. Include the truck driver’s name and information, as well as the truck company’s name and license plate information.
- Contact a jackknife accident attorney. If you’re in the Miami area, that means it’s time to call Brooks Law Group!
Contact Brooks Law Group after your truck accident.
At Brooks Law Group, our team of experienced truck accident injury attorneys takes care of you throughout the claims and settlement process. From your first free consultation with our team, you can count on us to thoroughly investigate your case, from the trucking company’s safety records to the details of your specific accident. We handle all communication, so you can focus on healing and moving forward, and hold negligent parties accountable and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Our case results showcase our dedication to clients just like you.
If you’ve been injured in a jackknife accident in the Miami area and aren’t sure where to turn, look to Brooks. You don’t have to face the aftermath of a crash alone. We’re here for you!
