When a large truck jackknifes it puts everyone on the road in serious danger. Jackknifing refers to the motion a large semi-truck takes when the trailer swings forward to meet the cab, causing the vehicle to take on the shape of an opened jackknife. A variety of situations can cause accidents like this, often leading to serious injury or even death to the drivers and passengers in nearby vehicles.
If you or a loved one was injured in a jackknifed truck incident, our lawyers can help. At Martin Jean & Jackson, we provide compassionate and thorough legal services for those suffering a loss or injury. When you are in need of legal counsel, we can guide you through the process of a personal injury case and fight for your rights so that you can focus on healing.
Our attorneys are available at any of our office locations in Oklahoma City, Ponca City, Stillwater, and Tulsa.
If a truck driver attempts to bring their semi to a sudden halt, it can cause the back end of the vehicle to swing outward, unable to stop as quickly as the cab demands. As the wheels stop and the momentum of the trailer continues the semi will fishtail, causing it to swing outward, sliding into anything in its path. Most semis, or 18-wheelers weigh around 80,000 pounds, and can hardly stop on a dime. Jackknifed truck accidents frequently occur on exit ramps or curved roads, and are especially common during icy or rain-slicked conditions.
Jackknifing accidents could be caused by a number of issues, including, but not limited to:
The responsibility for these types of incidents may fall with a variety of different people, depending on the circumstances of your crash. If, for example, the driver of the semi was texting while driving when they jackknifed, they are responsible for the accident. However, if the brakes malfunctioned while a truck driver was attempting to stop, the manufacturer of the faulty break part is likely liable. With the help of our practiced attorneys, and our firms numerous resources, we can help investigate the cause of your accident and determine who is likely at fault.
Being in an accident with a big rig can be terrifying, and can result in serious, if not life-threatening injury. If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a jackknifing truck accident, our attorneys want to help. Whether you need help with a wrongful death case or personal injury, our firm has 100 years of collective experience to put towards your legal issue.
Contact Martin Jean & Jackson to discuss your jackknifed truck accident case, today.
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