Jackknife truck accidents are some of the most common types of truck accidents. When a trucker stops short or makes a sharp turn, their trailer might swing around forming a V or L shape. It is often difficult for the trucker to control the vehicle during a jackknife accident due to the force of the crash. These collisions are devastating, causing serious injuries or even death.
Many tractor-trailer wrecks happen because of driver negligence or poor truck maintenance. When you are injured in a truck accident, you can pursue compensation for your injuries against the negligent driver who caused the crash. When the trucker is distracted or under the influence, they are liable for your injuries. Sometimes, the trucker’s employer or manufacturer are responsible for the accident.
A hardworking semi-truck wreck attorney can help you file a claim for your injuries. Contact a Bangor truck accident lawyer with Gideon Asen, LLC when you want to take legal action for a jackknife truck accident in Bangor.
How Do Jackknife Truck Accidents Occur?
In most jackknife collisions, the trailer attached to the truck does not stop or slow down. The momentum of the crash causes the trailer to fishtail, causing a jackknife. When large trucks or 18-wheelers jackknife, the trucker and other drivers on the road are at risk of severe injury. There are a variety of reasons a jackknife collision might occur. Common causes of jackknife truck wrecks include:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Brake failure or stopping short
- Bad weather or poor road conditions
- Driving under the influence
- Trailer malfunction
- Overloaded or wrongly loaded trailers
Jackknife semi-truck collisions often happen on exit ramps, sharp curves, or highways in Bangor. These accidents are more common during bad weather as slippery and icy roads can make it difficult for truckers to stop their vehicle. Sometimes, jackknife trucks cause other vehicles to crash or block roadways.
How to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit
In a truck accident lawsuit, many parties may be responsible, depending on the circumstances of the collision. For example, when the trucker’s recklessness causes the crash, they are responsible. However, when the truck brakes malfunction, preventing the driver from stopping, the vehicle manufacturer could be liable. The trucker’s employer could also be responsible for inadequate training or negligent hiring.
After a jackknife tractor-trailer crash, injured people in Bangor must cope with the physical injuries and financial challenges of the incident. Not only do these individuals have significant medical bills to cover, but they may also need time off work to recover. Sadly, some injured drivers are unable return to work.
Fortunately, a successful truck accident settlement or lawsuit reimburses plaintiffs for their medical care, lost wages or earning potential, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering. A legal representative works to determine who is responsible for a collision and what damages are available to the plaintiff.
Hire an Attorney in Bangor to Represent You After a Jackknife Truck Accident
When you are hurt in a jackknife truck accident, seeking immediate legal assistance is crucial. A lawyer can assist you after a jackknife truck accident in Bangor by collecting critical evidence, documenting the crash scene, and obtaining witness statements.
At Gideon Asen, LLC, our attorneys will diligently investigate the cause of the crash and determine which parties are legally responsible for your injuries—whether it is the trucker, their employer, or the manufacturer. When considering legal action after a jackknife truck wreck, call our legal professionals.
