Jackknife Truck Accidents in Kentucky: 80,000 Pound Out-of-Control Vehicles Can Wreak Havoc
A jackknifed tractor-trailer is one that’s lost control, and instead of the tractor and trailer pointing in the same direction, they point in two directions. When this happens, depending on the conditions, it may be difficult or impossible for the driver to steer or stop the vehicle. It may slam into anything in its way, including your car.
What is a Jackknife Accident?
A semi-truck has two parts, the tractor and the trailer. Both are connected through joints. Jackknifing is an emergency where the semi-trailer and tractor skids. The trailer and cab are perpendicular, perhaps at a 45-degree angle. The trailer and tractor look like an open jackknife.
There are two types:
- Tractor jackknife: The tractor tires lock, the trailer continues to push it, and the tractor moves sideways
- Trailer jackknife: The trailer tires lock, but the tractor keeps moving. The trailer then slips sideways
In either situation, the vehicle is out of control until it stops or the driver recovers.
Why are Jackknife Accidents Dangerous?
The tractor or trailer could slide into another vehicle. It may also cause secondary accidents as other drivers brake sharply to try not to hit it or steer around it. Given their weight and the speed at which tractor-trailers travel, these accidents often cause severe, life-changing, and sometimes fatal injuries.
If negligence can be shown, you may obtain compensation for the harm you suffer in an accident caused by a jackknifed tractor-trailer.
What are Jackknife Accidents Causes?
There are many potential reasons. They include:
- Improper Braking
Semi-trucks have air braking systems. Drivers must have proper training and use the correct techniques for safe operation. Any brake problems can cause the vehicle to lose balance and jackknife
If the vehicle travels too fast, high-speed braking can impact the vehicle. Suddenly, applying the brakes to try to stop the vehicle can cause the wheels to lose traction. The trailer or cab can slide due to imbalance. Using the brakes or not applying them correctly while engaging in a turn can also cause a jackknife.
- Bad Road Conditions
A pothole or another roadway hazard causing the driver to take a sharp turn can result in a jackknife. Inclined or uneven roads can cause a loss of balance or a change in the truck’s weight distribution. This may cause the trailer to slide. Confusing signage and lane shifts can be problems in construction areas because the driver may take a sudden turn that jackknifes the tractor-trailer.
- Poor Weather
Heavy rainfall makes roads wet and slippery. Tires without traction cannot keep the vehicle’s balance. The trailer’s brakes can lock up, and it can slide sideways. Icy and snowy roads can also cause the tractor or trailer to skid at different angles with each other.
Poor weather also decreases visibility. If drivers cannot see clearly, they may not realize how close they are to another vehicle or object. They may take a sharp turn or slam on the brakes to avoid a collision, which can cause a jackknife accident.
A tractor-trailer driver traveling in bad weather is obligated to drive safely. That can mean slowing down or pulling off the road if the conditions are bad enough. Poor driving conditions aren’t a defense to a personal injury case.
- Overloaded Trailers
Trailers are usually packed with heavy loads requiring substantial force and power to propel them forward or stop them. If it’s carrying more weight than it’s safe to do so, the trailer can lose balance if the weight’s not evenly distributed, making one part heavier than the other. Applying the brakes suddenly can cause a trailer to jackknife because the heavier trailer pushes the tractor.
- Inexperienced drivers
Semi-trailers are difficult to drive safely. Commercial driving is a stressful job with lots of turnover, so many new drivers don’t remain on the job long enough to be experienced enough to handle dangerous situations. They can panic in an emergency. They may follow other vehicles too closely or too fast for conditions.
All this can put a driver and their tractor-trailer in situations where jackknife accidents are more likely to happen. If they do occur, the results may be more severe than one where a driver can better handle the truck.
- Other Driver Issues
Fatigued, intoxicated, or distracted drivers may not be fully aware of what’s happening in front of the truck. If they see another vehicle, an object, or a turn in front of them too late to respond safely, their sudden braking or steering can cause a jackknife.
- Poorly Maintained Trucks and Trailers
Semi-truck parts should be in good working order and meet all federal and state safety standards. Problems with the braking system or steering can cause loss of control and a jackknife.
How Can I Win an Accident Case Involving a Jackknifed Tractor Trailer?
Commercial truck accidents can be complex, with different parties blaming each other for the problem. After you retain Satterley & Kelley, PPLC, we will get your information and investigate the accident. The facts and evidence we gather will be the foundation of your case and claims for compensation against others.
Speak To A Satterley & Kelley, PLLC, Truck Accident Attorney Today
If you are injured in a Kentucky accident caused by a jackknifed tractor-trailer, we can and will help you handle legal matters whose outcome can help you get on with your life. Put boots on the ground with help from Satterley & Kelley, PLLC.
To schedule a free initial consultation at our Louisville office, call 502-589-5600 (toll-free at 855-385-9532) or complete our contact form today.