If you’ve been seriously injured in a jackknife truck accident in Chicago, you may face, high medical bills, and lost wages. Seek legal guidance from an experienced Chicago jackknife truck accident lawyer at our truck accident law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers.
What is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife truck accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out at a 90-degree angle from the cab or tractor trailer, resembling the folding action of a pocket knife.
Why Do Jackknife Truck Accidents Happen?
Factors that can contribute to severe injuries in a jackknife truck accident, include:
Speeding
High speeds make it harder for truck drivers to control their vehicles, increasing the risk of jackknife accidents during sudden stops or turns.
Failure of the Truck’s Brakes
Faulty or poorly maintained brakes can cause the trailer of a commercial truck to swing out, leading to a jackknife accident.
Poor Weather Conditions
Slippery roads, heavy rain, snow, and strong winds can make it difficult for truck drivers to control their vehicles, causing jackknife accidents.
Driver Error
Fatigue, distraction, or impairment from drugs or alcohol can reduce a truck driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of jackknife accidents.
Consequences of Jackknife Truck Accidents
A jackknife truck accident can cause serious injuries and fatalities including:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and bruises
- Wrongful death
How Do Chicago Truck Accident Lawyers Help in a Jackknife Truck Accident?
If you have been injured in a jackknife truck accident, it is important to seek legal representation from a Chicago truck accident attorney who can:
- Investigate the accident: A skilled Chicago truck accident lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident to determine who is at fault.
- Handle communication with insurance companies: Trucking companies and their insurers often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the victim. An experienced truck accident attorney will advocate for your rights and negotiate a fair settlement for you.
- File a personal injury lawsuit: If necessary, a legal team can file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties.
Who May Be Held Liable for a Jackknife Truck Accident?
When jackknife truck accidents happen, it is sometime difficult to determine liability due to number of parties involved. At-fault parties may include:
- The truck driver if they were speeding, driving recklessly, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- The trucking company may share liability if they failed to maintain vehicles or enforce safety regulations that led to the jackknife crash.
- Drivers of other vehicles may have contributed by driving negligently.
Types of Compensation for Jackknife Truck Crash Injuries in Chicago
If you’ve suffered catastrophic injuries in a serious accident involving a jackknifed truck, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Wrongful death (in the case of a loved one’s death)
What Is My Case Worth?
Chicago truck accident attorneys evaluate jackknife truck accident cases of accident victims considering factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the level of negligence of the liable party.
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife truck accident in Chicago, contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers as soon as possible.
We have a proven track record handling truck accident cases and will ensure you receive dedicated representation.
Reach out today for a free consultation to learn about your legal options.
(312) 223-1700