Jackknife accidents are among the most dangerous collisions on California highways. Many jackknife accidents occur when semi-trucks brake suddenly or lose traction, causing the trailer to swing out from behind the cab and the truck driver to lose control. A jackknifing tractor-trailer can cause multi-vehicle pileups, severe injuries, and extended highway closures.
People injured in commercial truck accidents often face life-altering injuries and high medical bills. Many feel overwhelmed and need trusted guidance. An accident victim will benefit from having an experienced jackknife truck accident lawyer review the collision and explain the legal options for seeking fair compensation.
The experienced truck accident attorneys at Carcione, Henderson & Markowitz, LLP have spent over 40 years helping San Mateo accident victims rebuild their lives after serious injuries. Let a jackknife truck accident lawyer help you seek justice and accountability to move forward with your life.
How a San Mateo Jackknife Accident Lawyer Can Help
Commercial truck jackknife accidents involve complexities beyond typical car crashes. As part of a truck accident case, a knowledgeable San Mateo jackknife truck accident attorney can move quickly to investigate whether a commercial truck driver violated hours-of-service rules, whether a transport company properly maintained its vehicles, and whether cargo was loaded securely. Violations of the regulations governing commercial trucks may show negligence on the part of the trucking company or commercial truck driver.
Immediate action is crucial to gain access to a commercial vehicle and its black box data recorder because data can be overwritten within days. Electronic logging devices record speed, braking, and driver behavior, such as whether brakes were applied or whether speed contributed to a jackknife accident. Preserving this information requires legal action before companies delete records. San Mateo jackknife truck accident attorneys issue spoliation letters to secure maintenance logs, driver files, and safety records.
Determining fault involves analyzing driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, cargo loading, road conditions, and weather. A San Mateo truck accident lawyer works with accident reconstruction specialists and engineers to examine skid marks, vehicle damage, and mechanical systems. Attorneys also identify all insurance coverage and potentially liable parties, including drivers, trucking companies, maintenance contractors, and cargo loaders.
What Causes Jackknife Accidents?
Sudden braking on slippery surfaces is the leading cause of jackknife accidents. When truck drivers brake too hard, on wet or icy roads, trailer wheels can lock while the cab keeps moving, causing jackknifing. Improperly loaded cargo may shift during transit, destabilizing a trailer. Overloaded trailers increase stopping distances, compounding the danger.
Speeding, reckless driving, and aggressive maneuvers reduce the control needed to prevent truck accidents. Driver fatigue slows reaction times and impairs judgment.
Equipment failures, especially brake problems, tire defects, and suspension issues, can trigger jackknife crashes. Poor road conditions, potholes, sharp curves, steep grades, and narrow lanes further increase risk. Each factor can lead to catastrophic collisions, making a jackknife accident lawyer’s involvement essential after semi-truck accidents.
What to Do After a Jackknife Accident
Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial after any jackknife collision. The violent forces involved in a motor vehicle accident can cause injuries that may not show symptoms right away, including traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, and spinal damage. A medical evaluation can document injuries and help truck accident victims begin receiving treatment. Medical documentation should continue throughout recovery.
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, bills, prescriptions, and how injuries affect work and daily life. Preserve physical evidence, including damaged belongings and vehicle parts. Avoid communicating with trucking company representatives without legal counsel. Always consult a trailer jackknife accident attorney before making decisions about accepting an insurance settlement.
Who Is Liable in a Jackknife Accident?
Truck drivers bear responsibility when their negligence causes trailer jackknife accidents. Speeding, following too closely, driving while dangerously fatigued, and failing to adjust driving to weather conditions may constitute driver negligence. Drivers who violate hours-of-service regulations by spending many hours behind the wheel without a rest break are liable when fatigue contributes to crashes. Independent contractors can also be held accountable for negligent actions.
Trucking companies face liability through multiple pathways. Negligent hiring that ignores poor driving records, inadequate training, or pressure to meet unrealistic schedules creates company responsibility.
Cargo loading companies and warehouses are responsible when improperly loaded or unsecured freight destabilizes trailers. Weight distribution must follow federal securement standards.
Parts manufacturers may also face product liability claims when defective brakes, tires, coupling devices, or trailer systems cause jackknife accidents. Each responsible party can be pursued separately, allowing victims to seek full compensation for injuries, damages, and losses.
How Much Is My Jackknife Accident Case Worth?
Case value in jackknife accidents depends on many factors. Medical expenses form the basis, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, medications, and assistive devices.
Future medical needs often exceed initial costs when ongoing treatment or lifelong care is required. Lost income covers wages missed during recovery, while lost earning capacity compensates for permanent disabilities that limit work.
Pain and suffering damages address physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress, or depression from lasting injuries. Property damage covers vehicle repair or replacement.
Punitive damages may apply when trucking companies knowingly violate safety rules, falsify maintenance records, or show reckless disregard for public safety. Each factor contributes to full compensation for victims’ losses and long-term impacts.
How Long Do I Have to File a Jackknife Collision Claim in California?
California law allows two (2) years from the date of the truck accident to file a San Mateo personal injury claim. Exceptions include claims against government entities, which require administrative filings within six months, and claims involving minors, who may have extended time frames.
Prompt action is critical after commercial truck accidents because evidence deteriorates quickly. Skid marks fade, witnesses forget details, and truck data can be overwritten. A trailer jackknife accident lawyer can secure records, secure witness statements, and identify potentially responsible parties.
Contact a San Mateo Jackknife Accident Lawyer Today
Jackknife accidents create overwhelming challenges for victims and families. Severe injuries require extensive medical care, while lost income and mounting bills cause financial strain. Trucking companies and their insurers work to minimize insurance payouts, making strong legal support essential.
The personal injury lawyers at Carcione, Henderson & Markowitz, LLP have over 40 years of experience representing clients in San Mateo and across Northern California. The law firm is selective about the cases it takes to give each client and case the full attention they deserve. Past case results include a $17,066,869.16 recovery in DeLeon et al. v. Fresh Express, showing the firm’s ability to secure substantial compensation.
Clients praise the law firm’s dedication and commitment. The experienced team offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, ensuring access to qualified legal representation regardless of financial circumstances. Call (650) 367-6811 or contact us online for a jackknife accident lawyer.