Truck Accident Causes 2: Why Jackknifing Accidents Happen
Jackknifing accidents occur when truck trailers bend in a way resembling a pocketknife. This is due to a truck trailer skidding and pushing into the vehicle. These types of truck crashes cause drivers to lose control of their cars. They can rollover and hit other vehicles. Motorists may be forced underneath tractor-trailers in what is known as an underride accident. The outcomes of jackknifing crashes are always tragic. What do these crashes look like? A recent accident near San Antonio involved a truck that lost control after jackknifing. According to the San Antonio Fire Department, the semi-truck collided with several other vehicles and crossed the median. Six people were injured, one of whom was airlifted to a nearby hospital. Jackknifing can happen for several reasons. However, many of these crashes are preventable.
Bad weather: Slick road conditions caused by rain and icing significantly increase the risk of jackknifing. The rear tires on a semi-truck may lose traction, causing the trailer to swing to the side.
Neglecting maintenance: A common theme on our blog is that poor maintenance practices cause many truck crashes. The same applies to jackknifing crashes. Commercial carriers should replace worn truck tires and brakes. It is also essential to maintain and replace suspension components and other steering-related mechanical parts.
Unsecured or poorly distributed loads: Cargo loaded into trailers can shift if not properly secured or distributed. Shifting cargo can alter the truck’s center of gravity, potentially causing a jackknife or rollover.
Careless driving: Semi-trucks are more challenging to handle than standard passenger vehicles. There is less room for error. Truckers should avoid speeding, especially while turning. Braking suddenly may cause a jackknife. This is almost always the case when truckers apply the brakes and swerve simultaneously. Truckers should remain attentive to traffic conditions to avoid this scenario.
How Can You Avoid Jackknifing Accidents?
We cannot stress enough how important it is to avoid semi-trucks whenever possible. Be extra cautious around semi-trucks in inclement weather or when road conditions are slippery. Semi-trucks are more likely to jackknife while making downhill turns. Unfortunately, there is no way to know which trucking companies regularly perform maintenance or hire safe drivers. Motorists injured in jackknifing crashes or their family members may have grounds to file lawsuits. An experienced truck accident attorney can help preserve evidence that may be crucial to your case, and can deal with insurance companies on your behalf. The Texas truck accident attorneys at Mike Love & Associates, LLC will provide the personalized attention your case deserves.