Most large commercial trucks have two different parts: the cab and the trailer. When a trucker loses control of their vehicle, the trailer may swing toward the cab and form the shape of a folding pocketknife. These accidents are called jackknife truck wrecks, and they can often result in serious injuries and losses for anyone involved.
The diligent commercial vehicle wreck attorneys at Smith Hulsey Law are experienced in handling jackknife truck accidents in Winder and could help you pursue a case.
Many varying factors can lead to jackknife truck crashes. Some of the most common include:
These crashes are often the result of truck driver errors, such as overcorrecting or attempting to make abrupt maneuvers. Our well-versed attorneys in Winder could investigate to find the cause of the jackknife accident by recreating it, interviewing people at the scene, and showing evidence to prove fault in civil court.
Some examples of injuries that could be caused by jackknife commercial vehicle wrecks include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage leading to paralysis, permanent scarring, and disfigurement. When a person is severely injured, compensation could be available. Our legal professionals could advocate for an injured motorist to ensure any settlement awards are just.
While jackknife collisions in Winder may occur because of trucker mistakes, other parties may be at fault for the crashes as well. The trucking company could be liable if it did not provide adequate training or failed to adhere to federal industry guidelines. The company could also be responsible for a wreck if there is a mechanical failure since they are required to ensure routine maintenance and upkeep of their vehicles.
A commercial truck manufacturer could be at fault for a crash if a defective part caused the accident. Additionally, other third-party motorists could be liable when their carelessness, such as distracted driving or driving under the influence, causes the collision.
After establishing liability, the civil court may award compensation for medical costs, ongoing care, lost salary and earning potential, and intangible damages, such as pain and suffering. Our attorneys could help determine what damages are available based on the facts of a case.
The U.S. Department of Transportation and other federal agencies seek to reduce the number of crashes nationwide each year. Therefore, truckers with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and the trucking industries they work for must comply with safety rules and regulations, including completing pre-trip vehicle inspections before truck operation. The Code of Federal Regulations 49 § 396.13 requires truck drivers to inspect their vehicles before each trip to ensure they are in safe operating condition.
After reviewing the vehicle and equipment, they must certify they completed the review and did not find any defects. These inspections are crucial for reducing the number of collisions in Winder, such as jackknife crashes, that occur because of damaged or defective mechanical parts.
You have the right to pursue damages when you are involved in a truck crash because of someone else’s negligence. Our legal professionals at Smith Hulsey Law are highly experienced in handling cases involving jackknife truck accidents in Winder.
In order to collect a successful settlement, a strong understanding of personal injury laws and the trucking industry are required to prove fault. Call our firm soon to schedule a consultation and review your options.
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