What Are Jackknife Truck Accidents?

Collisions involving oversized trucks and smaller passenger vehicles can have tragic consequences, so it’s important to be prepared. One of the most common (and dangerous) types of truck accidents is a jackknife incident. Jackknifing occurs when a truck’s trailer comes unattached from the cab or causes the cab to turn on its side.

Oftentimes, trucking accidents cause catastrophic damage, especially when a truck collides with a passenger car after a jackknife incident. When truck drivers sustain injuries in these accidents, it may be difficult for them to cope in the aftermath. Furthermore, truck drivers may lose their jobs following a truck accident.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Arizona, contact the Phoenix accident attorneys at ELG. Our team of truck accident lawyers in Arizona is here to help. While not all auto accidents with trucks can be avoided, there are a few ways you can stay safe next time you hit the road.

What Typically Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents?

Jackknifing can happen for several different reasons, including but not limited to travel on very wet or icy roads and abrupt braking. Furthermore, any travel at a high rate of speed and subsequent abrupt action can cause jackknifing, particularly with a trailer containing a light load that’s more likely to be volatile.

In addition, studies have shown that the likelihood of jackknifing is much greater when a truck encounters curves or travels downhill at excessive speeds.

How to Avoid Jackknife Truck Accidents

It’s hard to avoid jackknifing incidents as another traveler on the road. But keeping enough space around your vehicle is essential when you’re traveling next to large trucks. When driving near trucks in Arizona, simply give them more space. Make sure you always drive at least five seconds behind a truck to give yourself enough time to react as well. Though you can’t control other drivers’ actions or improperly-secured cargo, you can increase your reaction time and awareness of other vehicles.

Plus, you should always avoid other drivers’ blind spots on the road. When it comes to large trucks, this rule is especially important. Large trucks have more blind spots and larger blind spots, blocking out a huge amount of space. Avoid the spaces 20 feet ahead of the truck and 30 feet behind the truck to avoid a driver’s blind spots, and avoid the area adjacent to the driver’s side.

Steps to Take After a Jackknife Truck Accident

If you do sustain injuries in a jackknife truck accident, confirm the safety of all involved. Make sure you call medical assistance if needed. Don’t leave the scene of the accident and contact the police immediately. Leaving the scene of a truck accident in Arizona is against the law in most parts of the country, including Arizona. That’s why it’s vital to get a police report to settle your case.

When the police do arrive at the scene, avoid admitting fault or dismissing anybody else’s roles in the accident. Stick to the facts of the crash, and refrain from providing more detail than necessary.

Truck Accident Attorney in Arizona

Even the best drivers can’t always avoid truck accidents. If you’re injured or your vehicle is damaged in a truck accident, contact our Phoenix accident attorneys at ELG. Contact our truck accident attorneys in Arizona at (623) 877-3600 for a free consultation and legal representation today.