Jackknife Accident Lawyers in Plantation, FL

Our attorneys can fight for the compensation you deserve

A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling the shape of a folding pocketknife. This loss of control can lead to the truck skidding uncontrollably, often crossing multiple lanes of traffic and causing collisions with other vehicles.

These truck accidents can leave victims seriously hurt. But recovering financial compensation can be a complicated and frustrating process. That’s why you need an experienced Plantation truck accident lawyer on your side. The attorneys at Feingold Posner Draizin fight for the injured throughout Broward County and the entire state of Florida.

What causes a truck to jackknife?

These types of accidents are often caused by negligence, usually involving:

Sudden braking – If the driver brakes suddenly, especially on slippery or wet roads, the trailer’s wheels can lock up.
Oversteering or understeering – If the driver overcorrects or doesn’t steer enough when the truck starts to skid, it can cause the trailer to swing out of control.
Fatigue or distraction – Tired or distracted drivers may react too slowly or improperly to road conditions, leading to a jackknife.
Speeding – Traveling at high speeds reduces the driver’s ability to react quickly to changes in road conditions, making it more likely that the truck will jackknife if a sudden stop or turn is required.
Improperly loaded cargo – If cargo is not properly secured or evenly distributed, it can shift during transit, changing the truck’s center of gravity and making it more likely to jackknife.
Brake failures – Malfunctioning brakes can lead to uneven braking or a total loss of braking power, which can cause the truck to jackknife.

Types of injuries in jackknife accidents

Jackknife accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, many of which can be severe or life-threatening due to the large size and momentum of the truck. Common injuries seen in collisions include:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – These can occur from a violent impact or sudden jolt, leading to concussions, contusions, or more severe brain damage.
Spinal cord and back injuries – Severe spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. The force exerted on the back during the accident can also cause discs to slip or rupture, leading to chronic pain and nerve damage.
Neck injuries – Sudden, forceful movement of the neck during a collision can cause whiplash, strain, or tearing of ligaments and muscles, leading to pain and stiffness. The bones in the neck (cervical vertebrae) can fracture during the force of impact.
Broken bones – Arms and legs are often vulnerable in a jackknife accident, especially if the vehicle crumples or traps the occupants. The pelvis can also be crushed or fractured.
Abdominal and internal injuries – The trauma from the accident can damage internal organs such as the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys.

Medical expenses for treating your injuries can add up quickly. And you may not be able to work, leading to financial stress. If a negligent party caused your accident, you deserve financial compensation.

Trucking companies and their insurance carriers will fight your claim.

Jackknife accidents can result in severe injuries and extensive property damage, leading to potentially large settlements or judgments. Trucking companies and insurers have a financial incentive to minimize these payouts. Commercial trucking policies typically have higher coverage limits than car insurance policies, which increases the financial stakes for the insurer.

Trucking companies often have their own investigators, who are typically dispatched to the scene of the accident as soon as possible. The primary goal of these investigators is to protect the company’s interests by quickly assessing the situation, determining potential liability, and preparing a defense against any claims that might arise.

Insurance companies have many different tactics they’ll use in an attempt to get you to settle for less. They may dispute liability and argue that you were at fault for what happened. They may question the seriousness of your injuries. Or they’ll make a quick settlement offer that falls far short of covering your damages.

We can fight for the justice and accountability you deserve

Our attorneys know how to handle insurance companies – we all used to represent them. We know how they approach the process and are familiar with the tactics they’ll use to try to minimize your claim. That’s why we are focused on building strong cases that insurance companies can’t ignore. We can:

Gather all necessary evidence, including accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonies
Guide you through the legal process every step of the way
establish liability, whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer, or another party
Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

If you were hurt in a jackknife accident in Plantation, Broward County, or anywhere in Florida, it’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. We can discuss your legal options and answer any questions you have.