When a tractor-trailer jackknifes, the trailer swings out, forming a dangerous 90-degree angle and leading the entire vehicle into a skid. These incidents pose a grave threat, sweeping across highways and inflicting substantial damage to nearby cars and other motor vehicles.
Given the severity of most jackknife accidents, seeking legal counsel is vital. If you were hurt in a collision like this, a Norwich jackknife truck accident lawyer from Claggett, Sykes & Garza could help you pursue financial compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Contact our Norwich truck accident lawyers now for a free consultation.
Common Injuries Sustained in Jackknife Truck Accidents
Jackknife accidents often result in severe injuries and, in some cases, fatalities. The injuries sustained in these collisions impact victims physically, emotionally, and financially.
Common injuries sustained in jackknife collisions include the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): The abrupt and forceful nature of jackknife accidents can cause occupants to suffer head trauma, potentially leading to traumatic brain injuries with lasting consequences.
- Neck and head injuries: Whiplash and other neck injuries are common due to the abrupt stopping or shifting of the truck during a jackknife, impacting the well-being of all involved.
- Burn injuries: If the jackknife incident leads to a collision and subsequent fire, accident victims may sustain burns ranging from minor to life-threatening.
- Internal organ damage: The force of impact during a collision with a jackknifed truck can cause internal injuries, affecting vital organs and necessitating immediate medical attention.
- Back injuries: Jackknife collisions can result in back injuries, affecting the vertebrae and surrounding tissue.
- Spinal cord injuries: An impact to the spine can result in spinal cord damage, affecting mobility and potentially causing permanent paralysis.
The injuries sustained in jackknife truck accidents often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. After a life-altering collision, a Norwich personal injury lawyer from Claggett, Sykes & Garza could help you pursue a fair settlement for all you’ve endured.
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Recoverable Damages in a Truck Accident Case
Victims and their families may face emotional distress and financial burdens as they navigate the aftermath of these catastrophic events.
Recoverable damages in a truck accident case encompass various aspects, including:
- Medical costs: This category covers all expenses related to your medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Property and vehicle damage: This damage covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and other items damaged in the crash.
- Lost income: If you are unable to work while recovering from your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. If you cannot return to the same job due to your condition, you could also seek damages for reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: This broad category covers both the physical and emotional distress you endured due to the crash.
- Loss of consortium: This loss addresses the damage to your personal relationships due to your injuries.
- Wrongful death: If your loved one tragically succumbs to their injuries, you may qualify for a wrongful death lawsuit.
If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, an experienced Norwich jackknife truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process so you can reclaim your life.
How Can Truck Drivers Avoid Jackknifing?
Following the speed limit is crucial to maintaining control of a large commercial vehicle. Truckers must also reduce their speed based on weather and road conditions to minimize the risk of jackknifing.
Additionally, drivers must conduct thorough mechanical and tire checks on both the truck and its trailer before each trip. These pre-trip inspections play a crucial role in the prevention of jackknife accidents.
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Uncovering Negligence in Jackknife Incidents
Negligence, defined as the failure to take actions that could have averted an injury, often plays a role in jackknife truck accidents. When such an incident occurs, resulting in damages, an investigation ensues.
This inquiry typically involves collaboration among the police, an accident reconstructionist, insurance adjusters specializing in collision reconstruction, and potentially the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
The FMCSA plays a crucial role in assessing commercial truck accidents. Their findings may lead to a determination of liability, attributing fault to the driver, identifying a mechanical failure in the tractor-trailer, or absolving the trucker of any responsibility due to circumstances beyond their control.
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Connecticut’s Time Limit for Filing a Personal Injury Claim
In many cases, our attorneys negotiate an out-of-court settlement with the trucking company’s insurance company. However, if it becomes necessary to take your case to court, you must adhere to Connecticut’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
The two-year time limit is outlined in the General Statutes of Connecticut § 52-584. Barring unique circumstances, you must initiate your lawsuit within two years of the accident date or risk losing your right to seek compensation for this incident.
Contact a Norwich Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
The aftermath of a jackknife truck accident in the Norwich area can be overwhelming due to the legal complexities involved. Potential liability spans beyond just drivers and employers; brokers, shippers, and logistics companies may share responsibility, particularly if cargo mismanagement contributed to the jackknife incident.
Navigating these multifaceted cases and correctly identifying the liable parties requires experienced legal representation. A jackknife truck accident lawyer from Claggett, Sykes & Garza can evaluate your case and guide you through your next steps.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
