What Causes Tractor-Trailer Jackknife Accidents?

Tractor-trailers are made up of many different systems and parts but two of the main ones are those that are visible: the cab and the attached trailer. When a truck is operated properly, the cab and trailer move together in sync. On the other hand, though, when something goes wrong, the cab and the trailer can start to function independently of each other, which can cause a catastrophic jackknife accident. Truck jackknife accidents occur when the trailer of a cab swings to the side and sits perpendicular to the cab. There are many different causes of these accidents, and they are outlined below.

Excessive Speeds 

When large commercial trucks are traveling at more than 55 miles per hour, it is very difficult for the truck driver to change direction quickly or make quick stops. The trailers on trucks are extremely heavy and high speeds are much more likely to make them swing out of control. Excessive speeds are more likely to cause a jackknife accident when the driver is traveling on a curved road, or when they brake at high speeds.

Improperly Balanced or Secured Loads 

The cargo a truck carries often contributes to jackknife accidents. When trailers carry loads that outweigh the maximum weight threshold, this can easily cause a jackknife accident. Likewise, when cargo is not secured properly, it can shift during transport, which can also result in a jackknife crash. To avoid these types of accidents, 60 percent of the cargo should be at the front of the trailer, and no cargo should protrude to the exterior.

Defective Truck Parts 

Whether it is a defective hydraulic system, brake failure, or a tire blowout, defective truck parts can result in a jackknife accident. With commercial trucks, even the smallest malfunction becomes magnified and this can cause the truck driver to lose control of the vehicle. When this happens, the truck may sway back and forth or even tip over, either of which can result in a jackknife accident.

Distracted Driving 

Commercial truck drivers face many distractions when they are on the road. They often eat, change radio stations, text, or log their work, all of which can cause them to take their attention and focus off of the road in front of them. To avoid a crash in these instances, truckers may make sudden movements, which may actually cause a jackknife accident.

Negligent Hiring Practices

 In any of the above instances, an experienced truck driver can regain control of their vehicle and avoid an accident. When trucking companies are negligent, however, they may hire drivers that do not have the experience or expertise to properly control a truck. Inexperienced drivers may not know how to properly control their vehicle and become involved in a jackknife accident.

Our Tractor-Trailer Jackknife Lawyer in San Antonio Can Determine Liability 

If you have been involved in a jackknife truck accident, it is important to determine what caused it so you know how to hold liable. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio tractor-trailer jackknife lawyer will conduct an investigation to determine who is liable so you know which party to pursue for damages. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get more information.

Sources:

texas.public.law/statutes/tex._transp._code_section_545.351#google_vignette

txdot.gov/safety/driving-laws/texting-cellphone-laws.html