Jackknife is a term used to describe when an 18-wheeler truck comes into an acute angle with the truck cab – similar to a small folding knife. A truck jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of the truck starts to move quicker than the cab. In most cases, the trailer causes the truck to skid as it pushes the cab forward, causing it to swing in the opposite direction.

The Dangers of Jackknife Accidents

Truck jackknife accidents are extremely dangerous because they can cause the truck to spin across lanes and collide with other drivers on the road. In some cases, the vehicle is unable to stop and causes an underride accident. An underride accident occurs when a passenger vehicle is stopped underneath the trailer of the truck.

Jackknife accidents can occur for a wide variety of reasons, but one of the most common reasons is speeding. When a truck is driving at 55 mph or higher, there are significant chances of a jackknife accident occurring. Another common reason why jackknife accidents occur is adverse weather conditions. For example, slippery or icy roads can increase the chances of a truck skidding and causing a jackknife accident.

A study from the National Center of Statistics and Analysis also found that jackknives are 86 percent more likely to happen on curved roadways as opposed to straight ones.

What Should I Do If I Was Injured in a Truck Accident?

If you were injured in a truck accident, you might be dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and physical and emotional distress. Thankfully, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your loss. Our team at Daspit Law Firm has been helping those injured throughout Texas get the compensation they deserve to protect their future. Let our team guide you through the process to help you achieve the best possible results for your case.

Contact our Texas truck accident lawyers today at (888) 273-1045 to schedule a case review!