Can “Jackknife” Truck Accidents be Prevented?

What is a “Jackknife Truck Accident?

Semi-trucks that have a cab and a trailer are at risk of being involved in a jackknife accident. Jackknifing happens when the cab and trailer of a semi-truck fold into an acute angle with each other. Read on to learn more about why jackknife accidents happen and how they can be avoided.

How Do Jackknife Accidents Happen?

There are many reasons why jackknife accidents happen. However, driving behaviors such as driver fatigue, distracted driving (texting or talking on the phone), and speeding can be avoided when abiding by road rules. The following are some things that can contribute to jackknife accidents that may be out of a truck driver’s control, especially if they are inexperienced:

• Poor weather conditions such as rain, ice, and snow can make it hard to control the truck.
• Curvy roads can put a driver in a situation where they must make sharp turns that can result in a jackknife.
• The longer length of a truck may make it harder to maneuver in a last-minute crash avoidance situation.

How Can Truck Drivers Avoid Jackknifing?

Thankfully, advances in technology can mitigate the risk of jackknife accidents for large semi-trucks. For example, as of August 1, 2019, electronic stability control (ESC) devices must be equipped on all new truck tractors and buses. This safety device intervenes when a truck becomes unstable and could potentially cause a jackknife, rollover, or loss of vehicle control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimates that ESC can prevent or mitigate the severity of large truck crashes by 31,000 each year.

Injured in a Truck Crash? The Beasley Firm, LLC Can Help.

Sustaining a severe injury in a semi-truck accident is a scary experience. Not only can the road to recovery be long and painful, but it can also pose financial burdens when medical care costs become overwhelming. When it comes to protecting your rights in a truck accident claim, we are here to help you.

Our team of experienced lawyers comes prepared with the experience and resources needed to overcome the complex challenges of truck accident cases. With several record-breaking settlements and verdicts secured for our clients, we are ready to do the same for you.

Contact The Beasley Firm, LLC today for your free case consultation with our team.