During a jackknife collision, the truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle. This makes it impossible for the trucker to control the vehicle, putting those in its path at risk of harm.
Jackknife truck accidents in Media can result in severe property damage and devastating injuries to other drivers involved. Get in touch with a seasoned tractor-trailer wreck attorney for legal support when you or your loved one has been in a crash.
Jackknife collisions occur when the trailer swings out separately from the truck, placing it outside the driver’s control. Several factors can contribute to a 90-degree truck crash, including the following:
An overloaded trailer is more likely to shift out of control. The truck may not have the capacity to maneuver the trailer adequately, increasing the risk of an accident.
Similarly, an improperly loaded trailer may have cargo that shifts or tips over during the drive, throwing off its balance and making the the vehicle more difficult to navigate.
At high speeds, drivers have less control over their vehicles. Speeding can increase the risk that the trailer will hit a bump or corner that pulls it out of alignment with the vehicle, causing a crash.
Brake issues, tire failures, or problems with the connection between a truck and trailer can all increase the risk of a jackknife accident.
Trailers can slide or slip on the roads in poor weather conditions. Truck drivers may need to slow down to keep their vehicles under control. Unfortunately, some fail to take those necessary steps.
On a fast turn, the trailer may not follow adequately behind the truck. Truck drivers need to navigate sharp turns with care.
A Media truck crash attorney could examine a jackknife crash and work to determine the cause and at-fault party.
When a truck driver causes a collision that results in injury, the affected party may have the right to file a personal injury claim that will compensate them for the damages suffered in the accident. This could include compensation for the following losses:
In the event of a loved one’s untimely passing, a lawyer could help their client file a wrongful death claim to seek damages for funeral costs and other losses related to the incident.
In Pennsylvania, injured parties have two years from the date of a jackknife truck accident to file an injury claim. Failure to file before this deadline could result in the inability to recover compensation.
When you suffer injuries in a jackknife truck accident in Media, an experienced lawyer could help you assess your damages, collect evidence related to liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
You do not have to accept the first offer from the truck driver’s insurance company, especially if it does not reflect the losses you sustained. Many of those initial offers will be much lower than you should expect. Instead, contact a hardworking personal injury attorney to discuss your case. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
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