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June 2, 2025 by Greg Baumgartner
When a truck’s trailer swings out sharply and forms a right angle with the cab, it is called a jackknife accident. This action frequently results in several vehicles being involved in accidents and significant parts of the road being blocked. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that in 2020, 169 jackknife accidents caused fatalities.
If drivers are not paying attention or are distracted, it can easily lead to a jackknife accident. A brief mistake can cause you to lose control, especially when driving bigger vehicles.
Driving while tired or using drugs can slow down a person’s response and judgment. Driving for a long time without enough sleep or being affected by drugs or alcohol increases the chances of an accident.
Problems with brakes are often what causes accidents. If you do not maintain the trailer’s brakes, it can become challenging to control the trailer when braking.
Rain, snow, potholes, and rough roads can lead the trailer to move unexpectedly, which can be dangerous. Driving in such conditions can be difficult for those who do not have much experience.
If cargo is not loaded correctly, it can destabilize the trailer. Moving loads during travel can cause the truck to lose control, resulting in a jackknife accident.
Driving too fast makes it harder for a driver to avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. Trying to stop the trailer from swinging out during an emergency is challenging because the vehicle travels at high speed.
Because trucks are so big and heavy, their impact in accidents is much greater. Many victims experience significant injuries such as broken bones, brain injuries, damage to the spine, burns, and injuries to their internal organs. These injuries are usually more serious than those experienced in regular car accidents.
If it is clear that the driver was speeding, tired, or not paying attention, your Houston truck accident lawyer can help hold the driver responsible for the accident.
If improper loading by the entities responsible led to the accident, they might be held liable.
If a business does not maintain its vehicles or follow safety guidelines, it may be held accountable for accidents caused by these lapses.
The manufacturer may be held responsible if a truck or its parts had a defect that caused the accident.
Texas applies a modified version of the comparative negligence rule. The victim can only obtain damages if their role in the incident is no more than 50%. They cannot receive compensation if their share of the blame is more than 50%.
In Texas, victims have up to two years from the accident date to start a personal injury lawsuit. If you do not file a lawsuit within this time, you may lose your right to receive compensation.
Jackknife truck accidents can result in serious injuries and make the legal process difficult. Understanding the reasons and the rules involved is essential for victims who want justice. A personal injury attorney can guide you through the process and ensure you receive proper compensation.
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
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Houston, TX, 77069
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Since establishing Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has built a reputation as one of Houston’s leading personal injury attorneys, dedicated to representing severely injured victims and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence.
Greg holds two law degrees, a distinction earned by less than 1% of all attorneys, demonstrating his exceptional legal expertise. He is also a prestigious Trial Lawyers College graduate, further enhancing his skills in trial advocacy and litigation.
His relentless commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and many others.
With decades of experience, Greg has consistently received top peer reviews. He holds a preeminent rating, a testament to his unwavering dedication to securing justice and maximum compensation for his clients.
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