Jackknife Truck Accidents in Sacramento

Jackknife truck accidents in Sacramento can have very serious consequences for many road users. In these crashes, the trailer may swing outward, blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Flammable cargo or diesel fuel may spill, and victims can suffer catastrophic injuries. Road closures may also disrupt traffic and prevent other motorists from reaching their destination until the wreckage is cleared.

If you or a loved one was involved in this type of collision, our experienced truck accident lawyers at the Law Office of Brian H. Turner can help you recover compensation that will cover your losses and make you whole. Our attorneys are committed to listening, are available 24/7, and treat you like a real person instead of a case file. We can help you get the justice you need.

What Causes Trucks to Jackknife?

A semi-trailer jackknifes when its axles or brakes lock up and the trailer swings forward against the cab, thus giving the truck a V or pocketknife shape. When this happens, it puts both the trucker and other road users in danger.

While many truckers are professionals who operate their large rigs safely and with consideration for other road users, several things can cause their 18-wheeler to jackknife despite their best efforts. These include:

• Sudden hard braking by the truck driver
• Driving at high speeds, especially around bends or corners
• Improperly loaded or shifting cargo
• Sudden brake-checking from vehicles in front
• Collision with other vehicles
• Truck driver’s attempt to avoid a crash
• Fatigued or drowsy driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or other opioids
• Distracted or inattentive driving

If other vehicles are near the truck when the accident occurs, they may be involved in secondary underride collisions if they become trapped beneath the forward-swinging trailer.

Additionally, the jackknife crash may cause multi-vehicle pile-ups in Sacramento. These accidents can result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and significant financial losses.

Determining Fault in a Jackknife Truck Wreck Case

To determine liability in a Sacramento jackknife truck accident, you need to consider the circumstances that led to the crash, as well as other factors or issues. This is why, in addition to the truck driver, your attorney will typically consider multiple parties. Some of these include:

• The trucking company
• Cargo or freight loaders
• Truck part manufacturers
• Government entities

Third parties whose actions may have contributed to or triggered the series of events that led to the crash can also be held liable. An experienced attorney can review the available evidence to help ascertain who to blame for the accident and your subsequent losses.

Speak With a Sacramento Attorney About Jackknife Truck Accident

For injured victims of jackknife truck accidents in Sacramento, the trauma can be lifelong. The catastrophic injuries that often accompany these kinds of collisions often require lifelong medical care. You may have to face the reality that you may never work again. If you do, it may be a lower-paying job due to disability.

At the Law Office of Brian H. Turner, we understand the devastating impact of a truck wreck on victims and how it can translate to serious losses. Let our experienced Sacramento jackknife truck accident lawyer help you navigate these difficult circumstances and fight for your right to a fair settlement.

Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation.