Phoenix is a major transportation center with a high volume of commercial truck traffic. The city sees many accidents involving large trucks, including jackknife crashes.
Jackknife accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. These accidents occur due to the traction between the truck’s tractor and the trailer. This accident is named so because the truck’s trailer swings outward, forming an acute angle with the tractor, like a folding pocketknife.
It is advantageous for jackknife accident victims to seek legal assistance to navigate the complex liability issues. A Phoenix truck accident attorney at Sargon Law Group can help victims get compensation for losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, etc. Experienced truck accident case attorneys can help determine whether the crash was caused by driver negligence, mechanical failure, or other factors.
Causes of Jackknife Accidents
Factors contributing to jackknife accidents are as follows:
- Sudden brakes or Hard Braking: Sudden brakes or aggressive braking applied by the truck driver. On slippery roads, the trailer’s momentum can cause the truck to swing out of alignment with the cab.
- Speeding: The chances of a jackknife accident increase with the sharp turn from low speed or stop. The truck’s ability to maneuver safely is affected if the fast vehicle brakes suddenly. The trailer can lose stability and veer out of control.
- Poor Road Conditions: Road conditions like wet, icy, or uneven roads can cause loss of traction. It can result in the trailer slipping sideways and jackknifing. Drivers who do not accommodate adverse weather conditions while they speed or brake are at higher risk.
- Mechanical Failures: Mechanical malfunctions such as faulty brakes, worn-out tires, and other mechanical defects can result in loss of control. Regular vehicle maintenance and inspections can prevent such accidents.
- Improper Cargo Loading: Uneven weight distribution or poorly secured cargo can destabilize a truck, increasing the risk of jackknifing. Heavier loads at the rear end of the trailer can result in the truck swinging out of control.
Preventing Jackknife Accidents
Driver education, proper vehicle maintenance, and road safety measures can help prevent jackknife accidents. Some key strategies include:
- Proper Braking Techniques: Drivers, especially truck drivers, should be trained to use gradual, controlled braking to avoid sudden stops and causing the trailer to swing out. Most modern trucks are fitted with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to prevent wheels from locking up and reduce skidding.
- Reducing Speed on Curves and Slippery Roads: Drivers should be taught to judge the road conditions and maintain speed accordingly. Slowing down on the curves or while driving on wet or icy roads are some techniques to avoid risking jackknifing.
- Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Well-maintained trucks and functioning components can help maintain the truck’s stability. Regular inspections and maintenance of braking systems, tires, and trailer couplings can prevent mechanical failures and prevent jackknife accidents.
- Proper Cargo Loading: Even distribution and securely fastened cargo to prevent shifting can stabilize the trailer. Adhering to federal and state regulations on load weight limits and distribution should be reinforced.
- Driver Training and Experience: Extensive training of the drivers in handling large vehicles under different road conditions can help with accident prevention. Experienced drivers recognize the potential jackknife situations better and take corrective action in time to prevent them.
Regulations and Safety Measures
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations for trucking companies. These include
- Proper vehicle maintenance
- Driver training
- Cargo securement
Following these safety guidelines can help prevent jackknife crashes, safeguarding both drivers and motorists. Effective braking techniques, vehicle maintenance, and adequate training can effectively reduce the frequency of these accidents and enhance the safety of everyone on the road.
Source: Sargon Law Group, Phoenix AZ
