The long, spacious trailer on an 18-wheeler is a key feature of commercial vehicles because it stores cargo during transit. The bigger it is, the more difficult it is to turn corners. If drivers are careless or the cargo is improperly loaded, a crash could cause the truck to jackknife.
Jackknife truck accidents in Birmingham can be devastating for everyone involved. If you suffered an injury in this type of wreck, a lawyer from Singleton Schreiber could help you seek financial compensation from the trucking company to support yourself and your family. Our truck accident attorneys take pride in representing victims of negligence.
What Might Cause a Truck To Jackknife?
It is vital for the operator of a semi to maintain control and steer the truck correctly. If the driver loses control of the cab, there is nothing to stop the trailer from swinging around and folding into the front of the truck. This forms a V- or L-shape, similar to a folding pocketknife, which is where the term jackknife comes from.
There are many ways that this can happen, including:
- Suddenly slamming on the brakes because the truck was speeding
- An overweight trailer that creates an unbalanced load
- Poor maintenance on the vehicle, so the pivot point or brakes malfunction
- Adverse road conditions, such as ice, snow, or potholes
While these conditions might cause a commercial truck to jackknife on Birmingham roads, it is often someone else's negligence that causes a crash.
Drivers disobeying speed limits or being poorly trained, loading managers ignoring weight limits or improperly securing cargo, and mechanics failing to perform proper inspections may all cause semi-truck accidents.
Possible Compensation Available in a Claim
When a big rig jackknifes and collides with your vehicle in Birmingham, you may be eligible to file a claim for financial compensation under the trucking company’s insurance policy. The goal is to cover the expenses you incurred as a result of the incident.
The most common losses are economic, including medical bills, lost income if you cannot work, and vehicle damage.
It may also be possible to recover for non-economic losses. These include permanent disability, emotional distress from experiencing such a traumatic event, and pain and suffering.
Every claim varies based on several factors, such as injury severity and recovery timeline. Our legal team could review the facts of the situation and help you understand what your claim could be worth.
Contact a Birmingham Attorney About a Jackknife Truck Accident
If a semi-truck accident injured you or a loved one, you may be facing mounting bills and extensive treatment. A lawyer from our firm experienced in jackknife truck accidents in Birmingham could help you seek compensation for your injuries.
Whether negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance company or advocating for you in court, our attorneys at Singleton Schreiber are committed to representing your interests. Call us today to schedule a consultation.
