What Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents in Florida?

Jackknife truck accidents are among the most serious and devastating types of collisions on Florida roads. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, a jackknife accident can result in catastrophic consequences, endangering the lives of the truck driver, other motorists, and pedestrians.

What causes a jackknife truck accident and how can truck accident victims pursue legal recourse?

This blog, from a Hollywood truck accident attorney, provides a comprehensive overview of  jackknife accidents in Florida, their causes, potential consequences, and the steps victims can take to protect their rights.

What is a Jackknife Truck Accident?

A jackknife truck accident occurs when the trailer of a large truck swings out to one side, forming an L or V shape with the truck’s cab. A disruption in the connection between the trailer and the cab, causes the trailer to pivot and fold in a manner resembling the blade of a folding jackknife.

Such an incident unfolds in mere seconds and leads to devastating outcomes, including multi-vehicle pileups, rollovers, and extensive damage across multiple lanes of traffic.

Florida’s highways, with their high volume of commercial trucks, remain particularly susceptible to jackknife accidents. According to 2022 data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, heavy trucks were involved in 29 fatal crashes and over 100 incapacitating injury incidents within the state. Many of these accidents were the result of a jackknife situation.

Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents

Several factors can contribute to a jackknife truck accident, including a combination of driver error, mechanical issues, weather conditions, and roadway hazards.

1. Driver Error

Human error remains one of the most significant contributors to jackknife truck accidents. Drivers can easily lose control of their vehicles under certain conditions:

• Sudden Braking: If a driver applies brakes too forcefully, the wheels may lock up, leading the trailer to slide and jackknife.
• Sharp Turns: Taking a turn too quickly or at an unsafe angle can cause the trailer to swing out.
• Distracted Driving: A driver who is texting, eating, or otherwise distracted may react too late when faced with an abrupt stop or obstacle on the road.
• Fatigue: Long driving hours, often coupled with insufficient rest, impair judgment and reaction times, leading to poor decision-making.

2. Improperly Loaded Cargo

Commercial trucks must adhere to strict cargo weight and balancing regulations. Overloading a truck or distributing weight unevenly can destabilize the trailer, making it more prone to swaying. When cargo shifts during transit, it can throw the trailer off balance, increasing the likelihood of a jackknife accident.

3. Defective or Poorly Maintained Equipment

Mechanical failures are another common cause:

• Brake Malfunctions: Faulty or worn-out brakes can prevent a truck from stopping safely, making the vehicle harder to control in emergencies.
• Antilock Brake System (ABS): Trucks built after 1997 are required to have ABS to prevent wheel lock. However, if this system lacks proper maintenance, it may fail in critical situations.
• Tire Issues: Worn or underinflated tires reduce traction, making it harder to control the trailer during sudden maneuvers or slippery conditions.

4. Speeding

Speed is a major factor in most truck accidents, particularly jackknife truck incidents. The higher the speed, the harder it is for a truck driver to brake safely. On curves or downhill slopes, excessive speed greatly increases the odds of a jackknife event.

5. Weather and Road Conditions

Inclement weather like severe thunderstorms and heavy rain reduce tire traction, making it more challenging for trucks to stay under control. Florida’s frequent rain and the potential for tropical storms heighten these risks.

6. Roadway Design

Sharp curves, steep gradients, and poorly maintained roads can exacerbate risk conditions for jackknifing. For instance, a steep descent without adequate signage warning drivers to slow down can be especially hazardous for large trucks.

7. Negligence from Third Parties

Sometimes, entities beyond the driver’s control trigger jackknife accidents. For example, poorly designed or maintained roads, improper cargo loading by third parties, or mechanical issues due to insufficient maintenance may also lead to jackknifing.

Risks and Consequences of Jackknife Truck Accidents

When a truck jackknifes, it creates enormous potential for destruction. These accidents often result in multi-car pileups, severe injuries, or even fatalities. Some of the most common consequences include:

1. Serious Injuries

Victims of jackknife accidents frequently sustain life-altering injuries such as:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The sheer force of a collision can cause brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive or physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: The force of impact often causes severe spinal damage, resulting in partial or total paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Crush Injuries: High-speed collisions with a jackknifed truck can lead to multiple fractures and severe crush injuries.
• Burns: If the truck involved in the accident is carrying flammable materials, fires and explosions may occur, causing serious burns to victims.

2. Roadway Disruptions

A jackknifed truck can block multiple lanes of traffic, causing hours of congestion and increasing the risk of secondary accidents.

3. Property Damage

Vehicles involved in these accidents often suffer extensive damage due to the size and weight of the truck.

4. Loss of Life

Sadly, jackknife accidents can be fatal. According to federal statistics, most fatalities in large truck accidents involve occupants of passenger vehicles rather than the truck driver.

Legal Recourse for Victims of Jackknife Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife truck accident in Florida, you must take the proper steps to pursue maximum compensation and protect your rights.

1. Determine Liability

Identify the party responsible for the jackknife accident. Possible liable parties include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company (for poor maintenance or improper hiring practices)
• Cargo loaders (for improperly loaded shipments)
• Vehicle or parts manufacturers (for defective equipment)
• Third-party maintenance providers

2. Collect Evidence

Proving liability in a jackknife accident often requires extensive investigation. The following evidence can strengthen your case:

• Police reports
• Eyewitness statements
• Photographs or videos from the scene
• Black box data from the truck
• Maintenance and inspection records

An experienced truck accident lawyer will gather and review this evidence on your behalf.

3. Seek Compensation

Victims of jackknife truck accidents can pursue compensation for:

• Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost income, vehicle repair costs, and other financial losses.
• Non-Economic Losses: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and reduced quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: Additional damages intended to punish egregious negligence (e.g., severe safety violations by a trucking company).

4. Comply with Florida Statutes

Florida law imposes a time limit called a statute of limitations for filing personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits. As of March 2023, victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to take legal action.

5. Hire Skilled Truck Accident Lawyers

Given the complex nature of truck accident cases, retaining experienced legal representation can assist you greatly in the process of seeking a fair settlement offer. Working on a contingency fee basis, a truck accident attorney can:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Identify all liable parties
• Handle negotiations with insurers
• Represent you in court if necessary

A lawyer will negotiate with the trucking company and their insurance company and fight tirelessly for your rights while you focus on your recovery.

Preventing Jackknife Accidents

Although sudden and unexpected, adhering to strict safety measures can reduce the occurrence of a jackknifing truck accident:

• Truck drivers should undergo proper training and stay alert while driving.
• Trucking companies must ensure routine maintenance and proper cargo loading.
• Driving at appropriate speeds and respecting weather conditions can prevent loss of control.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jackknifing Truck Accidents In and Around Hollywood, FL

What is a jackknife truck accident?

A jackknife truck accident happens when the trailer of a truck swings out from behind the cab, forming a sharp angle like a pocketknife. This trailer swing can result in significant destruction and poses a devastating impact on traffic and other vehicles near the accident scene.

What should I do immediately after a jackknife truck accident in South Florida?

Your first priority should be your safety and health. Seek medical attention, even if you think you aren’t seriously injured. Then, gather all the details you can at the accident scene, such as photos, witness accounts, and vehicle information. Your personal injury attorneys and your insurance claim will need these reports.

Who can be held responsible for a jackknife truck accident?

The responsible party can vary depending on the cause of the accident. Commonly, it may include the truck driver, the trucking company, or even a third-party manufacturer if equipment failure contributed to the trailer swing. Personal injury attorneys can help identify all liable parties and hold them accountable.

Can I get compensation after a jackknife truck accident?

Yes, truck accident victims may pursue fair compensation for things like hospital bills, lost wages, property damage, and emotional suffering. Personal injury attorneys in Hollywood, FL can guide you through the legal process to account for all your damages.

How do I prove my injuries and damages in a jackknifing truck accident case?

To strengthen your claim, collect medical records, bills, and any documentation related to your medical attention. Detailed evidence from the accident scene, such as photos and police reports, can also support your case.

How much time do I have to file a claim in South Florida?

Florida laws impose a statute of limitations of two years for most personal injury cases, making it imperative to act quickly. Contact personal injury attorneys as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline. They can file your claim correctly and on time.

How can a jackknife truck accident affect my life?

A jackknife truck accident can have a devastating impact, leading to lasting physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress from hospital bills. It often takes time and resources to recover and return to your normal life.

Why should I hire a personal injury attorney?

Experienced personal injury attorneys not only handle the legal complexities but also help you secure fair compensation. They manage negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and ensure you receive support so you can focus on healing.

By knowing your options and taking the right steps, you can protect your rights and start moving forward after a jackknife truck accident.

Contact Cohen & Cohen Law in Hollywood, FL for the Experience You Need & the Representation You Can Trust After a Serious Truck Accident in South Florida

Jackknife truck accidents are among the most severe and life-threatening types of road collisions in Florida, leading to catastrophic injuries, massive property damage, and tragic loss of life.

Have you been searching online for “truck accident attorneys near me?,” “Florida truck accident lawyer,” or “Hollywood personal injury attorney?”

At Cohen & Cohen Law, protect the rights of truck accident victims across Florida. If you or a loved one has been affected by a jackknife accident, contact us at (954) 983-7100 or complete our online form to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your legal options at no cost to you. During this free legal consultation, we will listen to the details of your accident involving a truck and develop an approach to pursuing compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and all damages pertaining to your unique case. With transparent communication, extensive knowledge, and genuine empathy, we have been helping personal injury victims in South Florida for over 55 years.

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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

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