Few vehicles on the roads of Pensacola can cause as much carnage as an out-of-control, jackknifing semi-truck. These accidents can cause massive damage and catastrophic injuries, leaving truck accident victims with piles of medical bills and injuries that keep them from earning a paycheck or living life to its fullest.
If you were hurt in a jackknife truck accident in Pensacola, our attorneys can pursue your personal injury claim on your behalf, protecting your rights and fighting hard for every cent you’re owed. Our dedicated and compassionate team will handle your truck accident case while you tend to your injuries and rebuild your life. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer in Pensacola.
What Are Jackknife Truck Accidents?
A jackknife accident is a type of accident specific to articulated vehicles. It’s called a jackknife because it resembles the folding of a pocket knife. When the cab towing a trailer suddenly loses traction, the trailer may continue forward on its previous trajectory until it starts to push the cab, eventually spinning toward the cab at an acute angle. The truck essentially folds in on itself, often covering multiple lanes and posing a serious threat to other vehicles.
These accidents typically happen when the truck’s wheels lock up or lose traction. For instance, if a truck driver brakes suddenly and too hard, the wheels can lock. This causes the trailer to skid and swing out to the side. Similarly, slippery roads or sudden maneuvers can also cause the wheels to lose their grip, leading to a jackknife scenario.
Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents are relatively rare but can be devastating when they occur. Worse, many jackknife accidents are preventable and result from negligence by the truck driver or another party.
Common causes of Florida jackknife accidents include:
- Abrupt braking
- Slippery roads
- Improperly loaded cargo
- High speeds
- Equipment malfunction
- Sudden lane changes
- Steep downhill grades