Imagine driving on a highway in Louisiana when a tractor-trailer suddenly begins sliding sideways across the road. What began as an ordinary drive can quickly become a devastating accident involving multiple vehicles.
This type of collision is known as a jackknife truck accident. It is one of the most dangerous situations involving large commercial trucks.
Because tractor-trailers are substantially larger and heavier than ordinary passenger vehicles, jackknife accidents can cause catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and fatalities. Victims can face months of medical treatment, significant financial losses, and permanent changes to their lives.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a tractor-trailer swings outward at an angle, causing the vehicle to fold into a shape resembling a partially closed pocketknife.
Under normal circumstances, the trailer of a large truck follows the front of the vehicle. However, when the driver loses control, or the wheels lose traction, the trailer may begin to swing sideways.
As the angle between the tractor and trailer increases, the driver may become unable to regain control. A jackknifed truck can block several lanes of traffic, strike nearby vehicles, or slide off the roadway.
These accidents are particularly dangerous on highways, bridges, or crowded roadways where other motorists may have limited space to maneuver.
What Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents?
Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s tires lose traction, or its braking and steering forces become unbalanced.
Several different circumstances can contribute to that loss of control:
- Sudden or improper braking. Abrupt braking is a common factor in jackknife accidents.
- Speeding. Large commercial trucks require considerably more distance to stop than smaller passenger vehicles.
- Wet or slippery roads. Wet road conditions can reduce tire traction and increase the risk of losing control.
- Improperly loaded cargo. Cargo that is unevenly distributed or improperly secured may shift during transportation, changing the vehicle’s balance.
- Mechanical failures. Defective brakes, worn tires, or improperly maintained equipment can contribute to jackknife accidents.
- Driver fatigue and distraction. Fatigue can affect reaction time, concentration, and judgment.
Determining the cause of a jackknife accident is essential for holding the responsible parties accountable.
What Injuries Can Jackknife Accidents Cause?
Jackknife accidents can involve tremendous forces. The size and weight of a tractor-trailer can cause substantial damage when it strikes a smaller passenger vehicle.
Some of the most serious injuries caused by jackknife accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Internal organ injuries
- Psychological injuries
Psychological consequences can interfere with work, relationships, and daily activities.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Jackknife Accident?
Determining liability for a jackknife accident can be more complex than an ordinary car accident.
Depending on the circumstances, potentially liable parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Cargo loading companies
- Maintenance providers
- Truck manufacturers
- Component manufacturers
More than one party may share responsibility. An attorney can investigate each party’s conduct and determine what claims are available.
What Damages Can Victims Recover After a Louisiana Jackknife Accident?
A serious truck accident can create serious financial difficulties. Victims may seek compensation for economic and non-economic losses caused by another party’s negligence.
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate victims for measurable financial losses, which may include:
- Emergency medical care
- Hospital bills
- Physical therapy
- Surgical costs
- Future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
An attorney can evaluate your losses using medical records, employment information, and appropriate expert opinions.
Non-Economic Damages
Some of the worst consequences of a truck accident are not measured with bills or financial records. Non-economic damages address the physical and personal impacts of an injury.
These damages can include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Permanent impairment
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
- Loss of quality of life
These damages can impact relationships, independence, and overall quality of life.
Wrongful Death Damages
Some jackknife accidents result in fatalities. When a loved one dies due to negligence, surviving family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Recoverable damages may include lost financial support, companionship, love, and affection.
An attorney can explain who is eligible to bring these claims and what compensation may be recoverable.
Contact a Shreveport Truck Accident Lawyer at Desiah Injury Lawyers for Legal Help
When a tractor-trailer loses control, innocent motorists may suffer serious injuries. Determining responsibility in a jackknife accident can be complex. You should not have to sort through these questions on your own.
If you or a loved one was injured in a Louisiana jackknife truck accident, you may have a valid claim. Contact Desiah Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. Our Shreveport truck accident attorney will investigate your crash and pursue compensation for all your injuries and losses.
Desiah Injury Lawyers – Shreveport Office
333 Texas St Suite Suite 1300, Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 252-3034
Desiah Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
201 St Charles Ave #2500, New Orleans, LA 70170
(504) 553 3047