Jackknife truck accidents are among the most dangerous types of crashes that occur on U.S. roadways. They involve large trucks and commonly result in the development of severe injuries and extensive property damage. Unfortunately, they happen much more frequently than most people would likely assume.
A jackknife accident occurs when a truck trailer swings out to form a sharp angle with its cab. The motion resembles the shape of a partially opened jackknife or pocket knife, hence the name of the crash type. In this situation, a trailer can skid and pivot uncontrollably. A jackknifing truck can, therefore, not only hit any vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians or property immediately beside or behind it, but it can also impact those in several lanes of traffic, medians, sides of a road, etc. as well. Many multi-vehicle pileups occur due – in part, or totally – to jackknifing trucks.
Why do these accidents occur?
Several common scenarios can lead to jackknife accidents, many of which are related to the loss of traction between a truck’s tires and the road surface. Common causes of these kinds of truck collisions include:
- Braking suddenly or improperly: If a truck driver brakes too hard, particularly on slick or wet roads, the wheels of their truck’s trailer can lock up and start to skid. When this happens, the momentum of the trailer forces it to swing out to the side, creating a jackknife effect.
- Poor road conditions: Ice, snow, rain and wet roads can reduce traction, making it easier for a truck’s tires to lose grip and cause a jackknife. This is one of the many reasons why it’s important not to brake suddenly around a large truck in poor weather, as its operator’s response to this behavior could inspire a crash.
- Speeding and oversteering: Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, such as a need to brake or steer. Oversteering can also cause a truck trailer to swing out of control, particularly if a truck is traveling too fast for road conditions.
- Mechanical failures: Issues with a truck’s braking system, tires or other mechanical components can contribute to jackknife accidents. For example, if the brakes on a trailer are not functioning properly, it can lead to uneven braking, causing the trailer to skid.
As many of these common causes of jackknife incidents do not place blame for any harm caused squarely on a truck operator’s shoulders, it is generally wise to seek legal guidance before making any assumptions about liability in the wake of such crashes. Each crash scenario is unique, and must be addressed as such.