Jackknife accidents are among the most dangerous and visually striking types of roadway crashes, often involving large commercial trucks. These incidents can cause widespread damage, serious injuries, and traffic shutdowns for hours. But what exactly does it mean when a vehicle “jackknifes” , and why is it so hazardous?
In this blog, we’ll break down what jackknife accidents are, what causes them, how liability is determined, and what legal steps you can take if you or a loved one is hurt in one. Understanding this type of accident is especially important for anyone driving in areas with significant commercial traffic, such as highways or freight corridors.
What is a Jackknife Accident?
Jackknife accidents are among the most dangerous and visually striking types of truck accidents, often involving commercial trucks like semi-trucks or 18-wheelers. These incidents can lead to catastrophic injuries, significant property damage, and multi-lane road closures. But what exactly does it mean when a truck jackknifes, and why is it so hazardous?
At Ted Law Firm, our experienced truck accident lawyers explain what causes a jackknife truck accident, who’s liable, and how victims can pursue a personal injury claim for fair compensation.
What Is a Jackknife Accident?
A jackknife crash refers to a situation where the trailer of a truck cab swings out at an acute angle, forming a sharp or even 90-degree angle with the cab , similar to a folding pocketknife. This often happens in semi-trucks or other large commercial trucks.
When a truck jackknifes, it becomes nearly impossible to control, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic, colliding with passenger vehicles, or even causing rollovers. These crashes pose extreme dangers, particularly on freight corridors or highways with heavy commercial truck drivers.
What Causes a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Jackknife truck accidents are usually preventable and often result from the following:
- Improper Braking
Sudden or uneven braking, especially on slippery roads or during poor weather conditions, can make the trailer swing uncontrollably. - Poor Road Conditions
Wet roads, inclement weather, curvy roads, or heavy rains reduce traction and increase the risk of jackknifing. - Improper Loading
When cargo isn’t balanced, the trailer becomes unstable. Improper loading is a major common factor in truck jackknife accidents. - Speeding and Speed Increases
Higher speeds reduce reaction time. Exceeding speed limits is a leading cause of losing control of commercial trucks. - Equipment Failure
Faulty brakes, brake failures, or a broken anti-lock braking system (ABS) may prevent the truck operator from maintaining control. - Driver Error and Driver Fatigue
Inexperienced or drowsy drivers often make poor decisions. Drowsy driving and lack of proper training are major risk factors in these types of truck crashes.
What Happens in a Jackknife Crash?
Once a truck jackknifes, it can lead to:
- Multi-vehicle motor vehicle accidents
- Dangerous spills, especially involving the trucking industry
- Traffic blocked across multiple lanes of traffic
- Severe and fatal injuries for anyone in nearby traffic
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Because of the force and size of commercial trucks, truck accident injuries are often life-altering. Victims of jackknife truck accidents may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and internal bleeding
- Burns, lacerations, or brain damage
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
Who’s Liable in a Truck Jackknife Accident?
Multiple fault parties may be responsible, including:
- Truck drivers – for driver error, speeding, or distracted driving
- Truck companies – for lack of safe driving practices, proper training, or vehicle maintenance
- Vehicle maintenance providers – when equipment failure or faulty brakes are involved
- Cargo loaders – for unbalanced or insecure cargo
- Government agencies – due to poor road design or lack of signage
Proving liability in these types of truck accidents often requires accident reconstructionists, expert witnesses, and deep investigation.
Proving Negligence in a Jackknife Truck Accident
To win a personal injury claim, victims must prove:
- A duty of care existed
- That duty was breached
- The breach caused the truck crash
- Resulting in truck accident injuries or property damage
Evidence may include:
- Accident reports and physical evidence
- Surveillance footage or dashcams
- Truck black box data
- Driver logs and maintenance records
- Testimonies from accident reconstructionists
What to Do After a Jackknife Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a jackknife accident, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even minor symptoms could hide major injuries.
- Call 911 – Ensure the accident report is officially documented.
- Photograph the Scene – Capture damage, road conditions, and injuries.
- Gather Witnesses – Obtain statements or contact info.
- Avoid Insurance Talks – Let your experienced attorney handle that.
What Compensation Can Victims Claim?
Ted Law Firm helps truck accident victims pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Fair settlement for pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Potential punitive damages in extreme negligence cases
Why Hire an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney?
Navigating the complexities of truck accident cases requires a skilled legal team. Our truck accident law firm understands federal regulations, insurance tactics, and evidence gathering , all essential to maximizing your financial compensation.
Contact Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, our experienced truck accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you during this difficult time. We guide you through life’s most difficult times. We’re committed to your recovery and peace of mind. We proudly represents injured moped riders and their families in Aiken, Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Atlanta,advocating for accident victims across South Carolina and Georgia. When a devastating crash turns your world upside down, you can count on Ted Law Firm to stand by your side and provide the trusted legal support you deserve.
Contact us now for a free consultation and get the support you need today.
Attorney Ted Sink, founder of The Ted Law Firm, is a Yale, Stanford Business School, and Charleston School of Law graduate and former marketing executive who built a 7-figure law practice, earning millions for his clients. With experience in both law and advertising, Ted has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the ABA Journal. He speaks at industry conferences on marketing and law firm management, sharing insights from his unique background to help other firms grow. When not working, Ted enjoys traveling, diving, and dog-sitting golden retrievers.
