Jackknife accidents are some of the most severe types of truck crashes. When a truck jackknifes, the trailer may skid across a roadway and into oncoming traffic, causing a multi-vehicle pileup. If you were involved in one of these dangerous collisions, you may suffer injuries that require months or years of recovery.
Seeking compensation from the at-fault party can help you cover the costs of your medical treatment and other financial losses. Consider reaching out to Hancock Injury Attorneys to discuss your legal options after a jackknife truck accident in Tampa.
What is a Jackknife Truck Crash?
A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a truck swings out from behind the cab. It is called a jackknife because the tractor-trailer resembles a folding pocketknife when in this position.
These collisions are particularly dangerous, as the trailer can stretch across multiple lanes of traffic as it swings. Because they cover so much of the roadway, a jackknifing truck can cause a massive pileup. If you were in this type of devastating accident, consider speaking to one of our lawyers.
What Are the Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents?
There are several types of issues that may cause a truck to jackknife. Driver negligence, environmental conditions, or even mechanical problems can lead to a catastrophic crash. Our lawyers in Tampa have handled many jackknife truck accident cases stemming from the following:
- Speeding
- Sudden stops
- Aggressive driving
- Wet or poor road conditions
- Poor truck maintenance
- Brake or tire failure
- Fatigued driving
- Driving while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol
- Improperly secured or overloaded cargo
Understanding the cause of your accident is critical in determining whether you have a claim. Our knowledgeable attorneys can help you gather evidence to identify the cause of your crash.
Who May Be At Fault for a Truck Collision in Tampa?
Typically, truck drivers receive training on how to avoid jackknifing while traveling with a trailer. However, this type of accident can still occur with careless driving.
While the truck driver is often the primary responsible party in a jackknife accident claim, there may be other parties responsible, including:
- The truck driver’s employer
- The truck owner
- The vehicle manufacturer
- The company responsible for a truck’s maintenance
- Parties responsible for maintenance of the roadway
It may not be uncommon for multiple parties to play at least some part in a crash. Therefore, you could benefit from working with our team at Hancock Injury Attorneys to investigate the accident as soon as possible.
Seeking Compensation After a Collision with a Jackknifing Tractor-Trailer
Jackknife truck accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and damages that leave you facing years or even a lifetime of medical treatment and care. In addition to your physical injuries, you may also be struggling with emotional, financial, and social losses. Our skilled lawyers can help you pursue compensation for several types of economic and non-economic losses, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disability or disfigurement
However, before you can file a lawsuit to recover compensation, you must first seek restitution from your insurance company. State law requires all drivers to purchase personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This type of coverage provides benefits for injured drivers regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Our attorneys can help you fight for additional compensation through a lawsuit if your PIP coverage does not adequately address your losses.
What is the Time Limit for Filing a Claim?
According to Title VIII Florida Statutes § 95.11(3), injured parties must file their case within four years of the collision. If you miss the deadline, you may not be able to recover any compensation. A diligent attorney can help you ensure compliance with this time limit.
How Our Tampa Jackknife Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Trucking accidents typically result in more severe damages than regular car crashes. However, jackknife truck accidents in Tampa pose increased dangers because of the possibility of collisions with multiple vehicles. If you or someone you love was involved in a jackknife collision, you deserve fair compensation.
It can be difficult to handle a claim on your own, especially if you are dealing with extensive medical treatments. An experienced lawyer from our firm can explain the legal process and fight for your best interests while you focus on your recovery. Contact Hancock Injury Attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and to get started.