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Rhode Island Truck Accident | Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents are among the most common for semi-truck drivers. When the trailer of a truck folds at an angle that resembles a closing pocketknife, the resulting impacts for other vehicles can be catastrophic. Jackknife accidents involving trucks can be particularly dangerous and deadly. A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming an angle similar to that of a folding jackknife. This type of accident often results from a loss of control, and the consequences can be severe. Here are some factors that contribute to deadly jackknife truck accidents:

  1. Slippery Conditions: Wet or icy roads can reduce traction, making it easier for the truck’s tires to lose grip and the trailer to swing out of control.
  2. Excessive Speed: Driving too fast for road conditions or exceeding the speed limit increases the risk of a jackknife accident. Sudden maneuvers at high speeds can be especially dangerous.
  3. Braking Issues: Problems with the truck’s braking system, such as brake failure or imbalance between the truck and trailer brakes, can lead to a loss of control and result in a jackknife.
  4. Overloaded Trailers: Trucks carrying excessive loads or unevenly distributed cargo are more prone to jackknifing. Overloading can affect the vehicle’s stability, making it harder for the driver to control.
  5. Driver Inexperience: Inexperienced truck drivers may struggle to handle large and complex vehicles, especially in challenging driving conditions. Lack of experience can contribute to poor decision-making and inadequate responses to emergencies.
  6. Sudden Lane Changes: Abrupt and unexpected lane changes can cause instability in the truck-trailer combination, leading to a jackknife.
  7. Mechanical Failures: Malfunctions or failures in the truck’s mechanical components, such as steering systems or suspension, can result in a loss of control and increase the risk of a jackknife.
  8. Inadequate Maintenance: Poorly maintained trucks are more prone to mechanical failures, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Jackknife Accidents

To prevent deadly jackknife accidents, it’s crucial for truck drivers to undergo thorough training, follow safety guidelines, and regularly inspect and maintain their vehicles. Additionally, improved road conditions, proper signage, and effective traffic management can contribute to overall road safety. Enforcement of regulations related to speed limits, weight restrictions, and maintenance standards also plays a crucial role in preventing these accidents.

There are several causes for jackknife truck accidents including:

  • Equipment failure
  • Improperly weighed loads
  • Driver miscalculation
  • Improper breaking
  • Faulty roadways
  • Weather conditions

No matter the cause, a jackknifed trailer provides the potential for serious injury and multiple vehicle accidents.

Potential Injuries with a Jackknifed Truck

Depending on the speed at the time of impact and the location of the impact, there are several opportunities for serious injury in a jackknife accident. A head-on impact or a side impact from a fishtailing trailer can cause injuries such as:

  • Disfigurement
  • Amputations
  • Broken bones
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Brain injuries
  • Death

These injuries will all result in unexpected medical bills. More serious injuries may result in a lifetime of physical and emotional suffering. In addition, these injuries can impact your ability to work and provide for your family. In severe cases, they can take a loved one away from you. Determining fault in these accidents can be very difficult. Depending on the cause of the accident, the trucker, the company he works for, or even government entities may be responsible for your injuries. There will be insurance companies and attorneys working tirelessly for the trucker and his employer to ensure you are given as little compensation as possible.

The impact these accidents

The impact these accidents can have on you and your family can be devastating. Your compensation should never be left up to people whose best interest is in minimizing your damages. It is important to have an experienced Missouri trucking accident attorney on your side to help you get the full compensation you are due. When you are injured in a jackknife accident, you have a right to seek compensation for all of your losses. These losses may include a diminished capacity to work, medical expenses, or, in the case of death, loss of companionship. Without a personal injury attorney on your side, you may only be offered a settlement that does not adequately cover all of your current and future expenses.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

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