A jackknife truck accident occurs when the driver is unable to control the truck. As a result, the trailer gains momentum and then swings outward to the side. As this happens, the tractor portion of the truck and the trailer end up in a “V” shape. Jackknife truck accidents in San Diego are not uncommon, but when they occur, they can cause serious injury and losses to victims. Talk to a San Diego truck accident lawyer at Kashou Law, APC, today.
Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents in San Diego
In San Diego, tractor-trailers are easily found on the area’s main thoroughfares and on I-5 and I-805. These accidents occur as a result of one of several specific situations:
- Poor road conditions, including ice and rain
- Improper braking by the truck driver
- Equipment failures
- Taking a turn too fast or at the wrong speed
- Fatigued driving
- Intentional actions of the driver
- Traveling at a speed that is too high
Jackknifing truck accidents cause the vehicle to leave the roadway, and depending on the location and speed of that process, the truck can hit several other vehicles, causing serious injuries. Most of the time, jackknifing is preventable through the use of safe driving habits and routine maintenance on trucks.
Jackknifing Accidents in San Diego Cause Serious Injuries
When a vehicle jackknifes like this, the driver is unable to control its movements, and that leads to a high risk of serious injury to anyone who is in the path. Some of the most common serious injuries caused by jackknifing include:
- Fatalities, often due to trauma and impact of the truck
- Crushed bones and complex fractures
- Spinal cord damage, including some that lead to paralysis
- Head injuries resulting in impairment from cognitive decline as a result of traumatic brain injuries
- Disfigurement, including the loss of limbs or other amputations
It is also likely that a victim will experience mental anguish and pain from this type of accident. That can result in emotional trauma.
Who Is Responsible for Jackknifing Accidents in San Diego?
Jackknifing is often preventable, and that means that someone could be responsible for the injuries you have. Some of those parties may include:
- The truck driver that caused the incident such as due to intoxication, reckless driving, or inexperience
- The trucking company that failed to maintain the truck’s equipment if that caused the accident to occur
- The company loading the truck since improper loading and balance can cause jackknifing to occur
Incorrect or light loads, poorly managed cargo, improperly maintained vehicles, and inexperience are all the responsibility of the trucking company.
By working with an experienced tractor-trailer accident attorney, it is possible to seek compensation for any losses you have related to the accident. This includes filing a claim against all parties that caused this accident to happen.
If you were hurt in a jackknife truck accident in San Diego, seek legal guidance from a local, trusted, and experienced truck accident attorney. Doing so helps ensure you can file comprehensive claims that cover all of the potential losses you have from Kashou Law, APC. Call our San Diego personal injury attorneys today to schedule a free consultation.