Over 400,000 big rig truck accidents occur every year in the United States, resulting in about 5,000 deaths. Only about three percent of all truck accident fatalities are truck drivers. The remainder are drivers and passengers in the other vehicles involved. This figure is hardly surprising since a fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds.
Jackknife accidents are among the most common kinds of truck accidents. A jackknife accident occurs when a large truck folds in on itself at the joint between the cab and the trailer, resembling the shape of a folding jackknife. This can cause a truck to skid across multiple lanes of traffic, with catastrophic consequences. Unfortunately, jackknife accidents are among the most common truck accidents.
Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents
Space limitations prevent a full explanation of all possible causes of jackknife accidents. Following are explanations of some of them.
Improper Braking
It takes a truck a long time to stop. If the truck driver slams on the brakes suddenly, the trailer might swing to the side, causing a jackknife accident. This often happens when a truck is following another vehicle too closely or when the roads are slick with ice or rain.
Speeding
Speeding is particularly dangerous for a big rig truck because accumulated momentum, caused by the truck’s weight, dramatically increases stopping distance. If a truck is speeding and rapidly approaching a slower-moving vehicle, the truck driver might have a choice between a high-speed rear-end accident or a jackknife accident caused by sudden braking.
Improper Loading
Whoever loads the truck with cargo must take care not to destabilize the truck that way. Failure to properly secure the cargo can cause it to shift from side to side during the ride. Uneven loading of the cargo can also cause dangerous shifts. Either error can result in a jackknife accident.
Driver Error
Some driver errors cause many different types of accidents, including jackknife accidents. These “all-purpose errors” include DUI, distracted driving, and fatigue. Abrupt lane changes, fast turns, and driving too fast for the conditions also cause jackknife accidents.
Equipment Failure
Sometimes, a jackknife accident is caused by bad equipment, not bad driving. Problems with the truck’s tires, brakes, or suspension might cause a jackknife accident. The ultimate cause might be a manufacturing defect or negligent maintenance.
Common Injuries Sustained in Jackknife Truck Accidents
Jackknife accidents frequently cause catastrophic injuries and death. Following is a list of some of the most common injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
TBI occurs when your head impacts a hard surface. A concussion is an example of a mild TBI. More serious TBIs can cause permanent brain damage. Beware, concussion symptoms may not appear for hours or even days after an injury.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury can cause permanent paralysis below the site of the injury. A neck injury, for example, can cause quadriplegia (paralysis from the neck down).
Broken Bones
Any bone in the human body is vulnerable to a fracture caused by a jackknife accident. Some of the most common fractures include the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Rib injuries, in particular, can be extremely painful.
Internal Injuries
A jackknife accident can injure the kidneys, spleen, or liver, as well as other internal organs. It can also cause life-threatening internal bleeding. Because this bleeding takes place on the inside, you might not realize the seriousness of your injury until it is too late.
Lacerations and Soft Tissue Damage
Broken glass and flying debris can cause cuts, sprains, and contusions. You might need surgery to heal these wounds.
Psychological Trauma
The trauma of involvement in a frightening jackknife accident can cause you to develop PTSD, depression, or any one of a number of different psychological ailments. Take these symptoms seriously—don’t write them off as “only psychological.”
Have You Been Injured in a Truck Accident?
If you have been involved in a jackknife truck accident, you should talk to a personal injury lawyer. You will probably need a free case consultation to get a good idea of how much your claim is worth. Money shouldn’t be a problem. Since most personal injury lawyers charge based on the contingency fee system, you will only owe attorney’s fees if you win compensation.
