Texas roadways are perpetually full of semi tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers making their way across the country to transport goods and raw materials. The constant presence of these large commercial vehicles produces jackknife and other truck accidents daily, some of which can be catastrophic. Although federal safety regulations strictly govern commercial truck drivers, trucking companies and drivers often ignore or flout these regulations. If drivers violate safety regulations or drive while impaired or drowsy, they can cause disastrous jackknife accidents.
If you or a loved one were injured in a collision with a jackknife truck, you may need to consult a jackknife truck accident lawyer in Arlington, TX. An experienced truck crash lawyer can evaluate your situation and determine whether a violation of federal regulations or another form of negligence caused your accident.
Common Causes of Big Rig Collisions
Jackknife accidents occur when drivers lose control of semi-truck-trailers, which can cause the trailer to swing out into the roadway. When a jackknife accident occurs, the trailer may extend across several lanes of traffic. As a result, multiple vehicles may be involved in the crash.
The load that a tractor-trailer is carrying at the time of a crash can also cause severe injuries. For instance, a flatbed trailer carrying heavy equipment or steel pipes that jackknifes can quickly lose its cargo. Any materials or equipment can cause additional damage to other vehicles and cause the accident to become more widespread.
Due to the potential for numerous vehicles, equipment, and cargo to be involved in jackknife truck accidents, the injuries are often catastrophic. Drivers and occupants of much smaller passenger vehicles are vulnerable to the impact of much larger and heavier commercial trucks. The force of these crashes can lead to substantial injuries for drivers and passengers.
Common Injuries in a Jackknife Collision
Some of the many injuries that may occur in a jackknife truck accident include traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and paralysis. In some cases, these injuries prove to be fatal, which can lead to wrongful death actions. A diligent Arlington jackknife truck accident attorney can assess each situation and determine the viability of any personal injury claims that injured parties may have.
Arlington Jackknife Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
Negligence in Jackknife Truck Accidents
Most personal injury claims that arise from jackknife truck accidents are based on negligence or the careless behavior of other parties. When individuals or entities fail to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances, they may be negligent in causing an accident. A finding of negligence can lead to liability if an accident causes bodily injury and property damage to others.
Negligence consists of four elements: duty, breach of duty, proximate cause, and damages. All drivers have an obligation toward others on the roadways to drive safely and obey traffic rules. When the conduct of drivers breaches or falls below this standard of care, and they cause an accident resulting in injuries, they may be liable.
Various scenarios involving negligence may lead to jackknife truck accidents. Some common examples of negligence that may cause these accidents include:
- Impairment, fatigue, and distraction
- Driver inexperience
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Failing to brake properly when pulling an empty trailer or a light load
Any of these situations can lead to liability on behalf of truck drivers and the trucking companies that employ them. A jackknife truck accident lawyer in Arlington may be able to help injury victims establish the elements of negligence necessary to validate a personal injury claim.
Mechanical Checks to Help Prevent Jackknife Accidents
Mechanical checks are legally mandated per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules. A trucking company or driver must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain its vehicles. Carrier has some ways to determine the correct intervals for inspection, maintenance, and repair of its vehicles, but the driver has a duty to walk around and inspect prior to each time they take off.
Reach Out to an Arlington Jackknife Truck Accident Attorney for Advice
A catastrophic jackknife truck accident can cause serious injuries and financial losses. A jackknife truck accident lawyer in Arlington, TX can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. With experienced legal guidance from The Texas Law Dog, you can hold negligent parties accountable and access the care and support you need. Call today to schedule a consultation.
