When a truck jackknifes, the trailer swings out to one side, blocking the roadway and causing the entire vehicle to skid out of control. This situation poses a grave danger, sweeping across multiple lanes and inflicting devastating damage to other nearby vehicles and their occupants.
If you’ve sustained injuries in such a collision, Claggett, Sykes & Garza is here to help. After a devastating crash, our Connecticut Jackknife truck accident lawyer can explain your legal options and help you pursue the money you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Contact our Connecticut truck accident lawyers now for a free case evaluation.
Understanding Jackknife Truck Accidents
Various factors can contribute to a jackknife incident, including driving at speeds unsuitable for conditions, speeding when navigating curves, or actions leading to cargo shifting within the trailer. Abrupt lane changes are also potential causes of jackknifing.
When a truck jackknifes, it causes significant risks to other motorists. Vehicles following the tractor-trailer often struggle to stop in time to avoid a collision, and the sliding trailer may also collide with vehicles ahead of it. In some cases, another vehicle gets caught in between the truck and trailer.
In order to prevent these devastating accidents, truckers should drive appropriately for the weather and road conditions and maintain appropriate speeds. Regular inspections of both the truck and trailer before each trip are also crucial preventative measures.
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Uncovering Negligence in a Jackknife Truck Accident
Negligence refers to the failure to take measures that could have prevented an accident. In the event of a jackknife truck accident resulting in injuries, a thorough investigation ensues.
This inquiry typically involves various parties, such as local law enforcement, crash reconstruction experts, insurance adjusters, and potentially the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
The FMCSA can play a pivotal role in a commercial truck accident investigation. Based on their examination, liability may be assigned to a negligent truck driver, attributed to mechanical issues with the tractor-trailer, or deemed unpreventable.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Motor vehicle accidents involving commercial trucks can result in various injuries, ranging from minor to severe.
Common injuries our Connecticut personal injury lawyers see in truck accidents include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash occurs due to the sudden jerking motion of the head and neck, commonly experienced in collisions involving an impact from the rear.
- Fractures and sprains: A collision can lead to fractures or sprains in different parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, or back, depending on the impact and position of the vehicle’s occupants.
- Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and other head injuries can occur, especially if the head strikes a hard surface like a window.
- Back and spinal cord injuries: Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and spinal cord damage can result from the force exerted during a collision, leading to long-term pain, loss of sensation, or paralysis.
- Soft tissue injuries: These include injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, often causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Lacerations: Broken glass, twisted metal, or loose objects inside the vehicle can cause cuts and lacerations, varying in severity.
- Psychological trauma: Accident victims frequently experience psychological effects such as emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
After a collision with a truck, seek medical attention promptly and consider consulting with an attorney about pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses.
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Recoverable Damages in a Truck Accident Claim
Commercial truck collisions often leave victims and their families grappling with significant emotional and financial challenges.
Recoverable damages in motor vehicle accident cases often include the following:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death
If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, seeking legal guidance from an experienced Connecticut jackknife truck accident attorney is the easiest way to hold the at-fault party responsible and recover the money you deserve. A lawyer from Claggett, Sykes & Garza will negotiate with the trucking company’s insurer and fight for you in court if necessary.
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Connecticut’s Deadline for Personal Injury Lawsuits
While our legal team often settles outside of court with insurance companies, should litigation be required, it must be initiated within Connecticut’s personal injury statute of limitations.
Connecticut law, specifically General Statutes § 52-584, imposes a two-year window for filing personal injury claims. Barring unique exceptions, you must take legal action within two years of the incident.
Failure to do so could jeopardize your ability to pursue compensation for all you’ve been through.
Talk to a Connecticut Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer
The legal aftermath of a jackknife truck accident can be overwhelming. Potential liability extends beyond individual truck drivers and employers; shippers and logistics firms may also bear responsibility, especially if cargo mismanagement played a role in the incident.
Effectively navigating these cases and pinpointing the accountable parties demands skilled legal counsel. A jackknife truck accident lawyer from Claggett, Sykes & Garza has the experience and resources to guide you through the legal process and maximize your financial compensation.
Contact us now to schedule a free case evaluation.
