Naples Tractor Trailer Jackknife Accident Lawyer
Many of us have experienced the terror of our car suddenly sliding down–or off–the road suddenly. Now imagine that happening when you are operating an 80,000-pound tractor trailer. This is how you end up with what are commonly known as jackknife accidents.
Even if you have never personally experienced a jackknife accident, you have probably seen one on the news. When the trailer on a big rig folds and swings on itself at a 90-degree angle, it pushes the truck cab forward in such a way as to resemble the folding blade of a pocket or “jackknife.” Other vehicles traveling on the road may then get caught in the path of the truck.
If you have been injured in such a collision, it is in your best interest to work with a Naples tractor trailer jackknife accident lawyer. At Cardinal Law, P.A., we help commercial trucking accident victims seek compensation for their injuries. We understand how to hold a negligent commercial truck driver and other parties legally accountable for their actions (or inactions) that led to a preventable accident.
The Factors That Can Lead to Jackknifing
Jackknife accidents are the result of simple physics. Like any vehicle, a commercial truck needs friction between the tires and the ground to maintain traction. But if that friction is lost for any reason, and the tires fail to maintain their grip, the truck can start to slide.
In terms of human-related factors that cause such a loss of friction, here are some of the more common scenarios we see in jackknife accidents:
- The truck fails to properly brake, either due to driver error or faulty brakes. If a driver suddenly “slams” the brakes, for instance, that can cause the front tires to lock while the rear tires keep moving, which in turn leads to a jackknifing situation.
- If the truck driver is speeding, perhaps to meet a tight delivery schedule, they may lack the proper distance to brake properly, which again can lead to sliding and ultimately jackknifing.
- Similarly, if a truck driver makes a sudden, quick turn, that can lead the trailer to swing out as it struggles to catch up with the cab.
- While jackknifing can occur with a fully loaded truck, an empty trailer often poses a greater risk as the lack of cargo means less friction and the greater potential for sudden movement.
- Road conditions often play an important role in jackknifing accidents, especially in inclement weather. That is why drivers need to be especially careful when operating tractor trailers when it is raining and roads are wet and slippery.
Contact Cardinal Law Today
Any collision with a commercial truck can lead to serious and potentially fatal injuries. We commonly work with clients who have sustained traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or who have lost loved ones. That is why it is important to hold a negligent truck driver or trucking company responsible if their actions caused or contributed to a crash. If you would like to speak with an experienced Naples tractor trailer jackknife accident lawyer, contact Cardinal Law, P.A., today to schedule a free initial consultation.
