You're driving along I-70, keeping a safe distance from the semi-truck ahead of you, when suddenly its trailer swings out to the side, blocking traffic and causing a multi-vehicle pileup. Jackknife accidents are among the most devastating types of truck crashes. When these wrecks happen on busy St. Louis highways, the consequences are often catastrophic.
At Finney Injury Law, our St. Louis truck accident lawyers have seen firsthand how a jackknife truck accident can derail a victim's life in an instant. If you've been hurt in this type of crash, you may be facing significant medical bills, lost income, and a long road to recovery. Understanding your legal rights is essential for protecting your future.
The Physics Behind Jackknife Truck Accidents
A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out to the side, often at a 90-degree angle to the cab. Several factors can contribute to this dangerous phenomenon:
- Sudden braking. When a truck driver slams on the brakes, the trailer's momentum can push the tractor from behind, swinging the trailer out to one side. Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers are more likely to brake abruptly, increasing jackknife risks.
- Improper cargo loading. An unbalanced or top-heavy load can make a trailer more prone to swinging out during sudden maneuvers or on steep inclines. Trucking companies and loading crews must follow strict weight distribution guidelines to minimize this risk.
- Equipment failure. Worn brakes, insufficient tire tread, broken trailer hitches, and other maintenance issues can make it harder for truck drivers to control their rigs in emergencies. When vital components fail, jackknifing becomes more likely.
- Road conditions. Wet, icy, or oil-slicked roads reduce traction, making it easier for trailers to drift out of their lane when a driver brakes or swerves. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and sharp curves can also contribute to loss of truck control.
Increased Risks on St. Louis Roads
Several factors make jackknife truck accidents a significant concern for St. Louis drivers:
- Highway traffic volume. The I-70 corridor through St. Louis sees heavy semi-truck traffic, as do I-44, I-55, and I-64. With so many large trucks navigating these congested roads daily, the odds of a severe crash are higher.
- Construction zones. Major improvement projects on St. Louis highways often require lane shifts and sudden slowdowns. Inattentive truck drivers may not brake in time, triggering jackknife crashes in work zones.
- Extreme weather. St. Louis sees an average of 16 inches of snow yearly, plus frequent sleet and freezing rain. These treacherous conditions make jackknifing more likely, especially for trucks traveling at high speeds on highways.
- Dangerous intersections. Certain St. Louis crossroads like I-64 and I-270 or I-44 and I-270 are notorious for truck accidents. Jackknifing risks increase when large trucks have to brake suddenly or make quick lane changes to exit.
Proving Liability in a Jackknife Truck Accident Case
When a jackknife truck accident happens, the trucking company and its insurer will immediately send investigators to the scene to look for evidence to reduce their liability. To protect your rights, you need a St. Louis truck accident lawyer on your side as soon as possible.
An experienced lawyer will take swift action to:
- Preserve evidence. Collect the truck's black box data, driver logs, and vehicle maintenance records.
- Interview witnesses. Get statements from anyone who saw the jackknife accident occur.
- Document the scene. Take photographs of skid marks, road conditions, and vehicle damage.
- Consult with experts. Accident reconstruction experts can help determine precisely how the jackknife crash happened.
- Review medical records. Identify the full extent of your injuries and ongoing care needs.
- Calculate your damages. These may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future treatment costs.
Depending on the circumstances, liable parties may include the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loading crew, or a parts manufacturer. Your lawyer will identify all potential sources of compensation to maximize your financial recovery.
Get Help From a St. Louis Truck Accident Law Firm
Being involved in a jackknife truck accident is a traumatic experience. Facing a long recovery, you may be unable to work and unsure how you will pay your bills. The compassionate legal team at Finney Injury Law understands the challenges you're up against, and we're here to help.
Our St. Louis personal injury attorneys have a track record of success in complex truck accident cases. We know how to stand up to trucking companies and their insurers to get our clients the full and fair compensation they deserve.