A common truck accident we often see on the roads is one where the truck carries a trailer and stops short or suddenly, and the trailer swings at a 90-degree angle, resembling a jackknife (where the trailer represents the blade). The reason this occurs is that the trailer is attached to the truck by a hitch, which provides freedom of movement (versus a flatbed, which is typically firmly attached to the truck and does not move independently). The freedom of movement with a trailer allows for an easier time for the driver when trying to make turns. However, the risk for accident is increased by its construction.
(Different Types of Commercial Trucking Accidents)
Causes of a Jackknife Trucking Accident
When a jackknifed truck occurs on the roads, it’s often possible that the driver might have prevented the accident by taking more care when handling the truck. By leaving an adequate distance for stopping more gradually behind the vehicles ahead. Also, a driver may avoid a jackknife accident by applying breaks gradually before a turn and not after.
Because of the sheer size and weight of a fast-moving trailer the devastation left behind in a jackknife accident can be unimaginable. The kinds of injuries suffered as a result can run the gamut of automotive accident injuries from broken bones to brain injuries to fatal harm.
Victims of such accidents can demand compensation for the medical costs as well as other losses resulting from their injuries. Family members may also demand damages through wrongful death claims.
Recovering Damages in a Jackknife Trucking Accident
Damages for medical treatment can include present and future estimated costs. Loss of income, employment or employability may also be recovered as a result. Likewise, other less quantitative losses may be recovered, like emotional damage, pain and suffering and more. Establishing a value on such losses can be quite difficult, but an experienced personal injury attorney can help provide a range based on their know-how, experience and support from expert witnesses, who can help juries to understand the full scope of loss in these areas.
Suing a commercial trucking company and/or its driver may be the most evident course for redress in these cases. Trucking companies often have massive assets with insurers who will work intensely to defend their clients from massive judgments. In some cases, they may blame you or other factors as the cause of the accident. They may also try to make a quick settlement offer before you’ve had a chance to secure counsel, often negotiating a comparatively low amount to ensure that their losses are minimized. Once you accept an offer, they will likely require a release be signed, which will ensure you are denied any future damages you’re entitled to resulting from your claim.
If you’re looking for an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer to help navigate your personal injury claim, we will fight assiduously for your right to the compensation you deserve. Call Bizzieri Law Offices at 773.881.9000. The case evaluation is free, and we never charge a fee unless we recover damages for you.