Jackknife Truck Accidents in New Braunfels

During a collision, tractor-trailer trucks are prone to jackknife, where the trailer swings to a right angle. When a commercial trucker loses control of their vehicle it can cause significant and even catastrophic damages to other motorists and vehicles.

Unfortunately, many jackknife truck accidents are caused by the driver’s negligence or their employer’s failures. If you were injured in a jackknife truck accident in New Braunfels and suffered physical injuries and financial losses, you may have legal recourse. A truck accident attorney can advise you of your rights and help you file a claim with the driver and their employer. While truck accident lawsuits can be complicated, our team of dedicated legal professionals can help you navigate the legal process and advocate for the justice you deserve.

Factors That Cause Jackknife Truck Accidents

A jackknife truck accident usually happens when a driver makes a sharp turn or has to stop short. The force of the vehicle can cause the trailer to swing in the opposite direction of the cab. When a truck jackknifes, it creates a dangerous situation for the driver and other vehicles on the road, particularly if the trailer rolls. Jackknife wrecks in New Braunfels with big rigs are known to cause multi-car accidents and devastating damage to nearby motorists and their vehicles. Some common factors in jackknife collisions include:

Improper Braking

If a trucker brakes suddenly to avoid another vehicle or obstacles in the road, the brakes can lock, causing a loss of traction.

Speeding

Likewise, when a truck is traveling at high speeds, it can cause jackknifing if the truck driver has to stop short to avoid a crash.

Sharp Curves

When truck drivers are not trained properly or lack experience, navigating sharp curves can be difficult. The trailer of the vehicle can swing out to one side if a curve is taken too fast.

Weather Conditions

Inclement weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice can create treacherous road conditions. A truck driver who fails to slow down in these conditions can lose traction and cause a jackknife accident.

Proving Fault for Jackknife Truck Accident Injuries

When a person in New Braunfels suffers an injury in a jackknife truck accident caused by another’s negligence, they must establish fault. To prevail in a negligence claim, the injured person has the burden of proving the person or entity they are suing owed a legal duty and breached this obligation, causing their injuries and damages.

After a truck accident, there can be a variety of parties that are liable for injuries and damages caused by the wreck. While the trucker may be directly responsible for their negligence, in some cases, their employer or the trucking company can be culpable. As such, the cause of a jackknife collision in New Braunfels is often a determinative factor in deciding who to sue. When truckers engage in negligent behavior behind the wheel or overlook safety regulations, those injured in the crash can pursue compensation for their injuries and other financial losses. Similarly, the trucking company can be held liable if it fails to adhere to safety regulations or if it is negligent in hiring, training, or screening potential drivers.

Consult an Attorney in New Braunfels After a Jackknife Truck Accident

Jackknife truck accidents in New Braunfels can cause a wide range of physical injuries, financial losses, and other damages. Although a variety of factors can contribute to a tractor-trailer collision, truck driver errors contribute substantially to these types of accidents.

If you or a loved one were injured in a jackknife truck accident due to negligence, we can help. While proving a claim for negligence against the trucker and their employer is an uphill battle, our office has the knowledge and expertise to help you succeed. When you consult a lawyer, they can conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances of the crash to determine who is at fault. We will work around the clock to gather evidence to support your claim. To learn more about your legal rights and remedies or to schedule an initial consultation, contact our office.