Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas

A jackknife truck accident is one of the worst kinds of crashes that Las Vegas motorists can encounter. The length and mass of any tractor-trailer are more than enough to cause severe injuries or death in a collision. But the V-shape of a jackknifed truck only makes matters worse. The truck’s trailer swings across traffic when it jackknifes, so any crash could potentially involve multiple vehicles. 

If you suffered injuries in a Las Vegas jackknife truck accident that was someone else’s fault, you could pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost pay, and other losses. But trucking companies are protected by powerful insurance companies with one purpose — to minimize payments to accident victims. A qualified lawyer from THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys can determine what your case is worth and fight for every dollar you deserve.  

Contact us today for a free consultation with a jackknife truck accident attorney in Las Vegas. Too hard to travel? We’ll come to you. That’s how committed we are.  

What is Jackknifing?

A jackknife truck accident occurs when a cab pulling a trailer skids, causing the trailer to swing out to form a 90-degree angle. When the truck trailer folds toward the cab, it resembles the motion of a closing pocketknife. 

Jackknifing accidents are more common in heavy trucks with articulated trailers, such as tractor-trailers and semi-trucks. Jackknife accidents are particularly hazardous as they can lead to the complete loss of control of the truck, often resulting in severe injury or death. 

What Causes a Truck to Jackknife?

Several factors could contribute to jackknifing, including:

• Speeding – Driving too fast for the road conditions can increase the likelihood of a jackknife truck accident. Trucks take longer to stop than passenger cars. Sudden braking could cause the trailer to swing out. 

• Improper braking – A driver that brakes too hard or suddenly can cause the trailer to skid and jackknife. Improper braking when the road surface is slippery due to rain, ice, snow, or oil increases the risk of jackknifing.

• Overloading – Trucks carrying too much weight are harder to control, especially when braking or turning. Overloading puts too much strain on the tires, which can lead to a blowout or loss of traction.

• Driver fatigue – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety  Administration (FMCSA) has rules about driving excessive hours or failing to rest between driving shifts. Pressure from employers to meet unrealistic deadlines sometimes influences commercial truckers to break the rules, which raises the risk of falling asleep behind the wheel. 

• Driver error – Even the most diligent drivers can make mistakes, but truckers that fail to take reasonable measures to reduce error can be held accountable. Drunk, tired, or distracted drivers have slower reaction times and experience difficulty paying attention to the road. 

• Improper maintenance – A malfunction in the truck’s brakes, steering, or suspension system can also cause a truck to jackknife. If the truck company or mechanics failed to make repairs and perform necessary inspections, they may be liable for injuries caused by a jackknife accident.

• Inadequate training – Trucking companies may fail to train and monitor drivers’ performance properly, or they might hire unqualified drivers altogether. The trucking company may be responsible when their truckers negligently cause a jackknife accident. 

What Damages Are Payable Following a Jackknife Truck Accident?

Jackknife truck accident injuries are often severe. You could have a lengthy hospital stay or need extensive rehabilitation. A jackknife truck accident attorney can seek compensation from the liable party for your physical, emotional, and financial losses, such as:

• Past, current, and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Disability 
• Pain and suffering
• Diminished quality of life
• Property damage

Common Jackknife Truck Accident Injuries

According to FMCSA’s Pocket Guide to Large Truck and Bus Statistics, 147,000 people sustained injuries in commercial truck accidents in a recent year. Severe or extensive injuries can result from jackknife accidents, including:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI ) – A brain injury can range from a mild concussion to catastrophic trauma, leading to irreversible brain damage, physical impairment, and cognitive difficulties. 
• Internal injuries – The violent force of impact in a jackknife truck accident can cause massive damage to vital organs, resulting in potentially deadly internal bleeding.
• Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can result in temporary or permanent paralysis and related health complications. 
• Broken bones – Fractures are a common result of jackknifing accidents, particularly in the face, arms, legs, and ribs.
• Whiplash –  Neck injuries like whiplash happen when a person’s body is snapped back and forth from the momentum of travel and the resulting sudden stop in a crash. 
• Cuts and bruises – Broken glass, debris, and other hazards can cause deep lacerations and severe scarring.
• Emotional trauma – Some victims have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other mental health issues after a jackknife truck accident. 

Why Should I Hire a Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer From THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys?

At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we understand how a truck accident can turn your life upside down. We also know the challenges people face in seeking just compensation for their losses. 

When you work with our attorneys, you get award-winning professionals with extensive experience handling Nevada truck accident claims. We understand what you’re up against. We also know what it takes to build a persuasive claim that wins. 

Hiring us is the right move because we: 

• Know the trucking industry – We have a deep understanding of the complex laws and regulations that govern the trucking industry. We’re experienced in the unique challenges that arise in jackknife truck accident cases and can craft a legal strategy taking those factors into account. 
• Will manage every aspect of your case – You don’t need to focus on anything but your recovery right now. When you hire THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we can manage the entire case with minimal disruptions to your life. 
• Will investigate and gather evidence – Truck accidents require detailed investigations. Our team will conduct an independent investigation, gathering evidence like police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos to build a strong case for compensation for you. 
• Will negotiate a settlement – Our attorneys are vigorous negotiators and won’t settle for less than you deserve, even if that means taking your case to trial. 

Contact a Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas

If you sustained injuries in a Las Vegas jackknife truck accident, you deserve hard-hitting legal representation to demand maximum compensation for your losses. Put the dedicated lawyers at THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys to work for you. Call or contact us now for a free case review.