As one of San Antonio’s leading truck accident lawyers, we’re passionate about helping those affected by these tragic accidents. Our mission is to guide you every step of the way, fighting relentlessly to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing while we handle the rest.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife truck accident occurs when the trailer of a large truck (such as an 18-wheeler) swings out to form an “L” or “V” shape with the cab. This dangerous scenario typically happens when the driver loses control, causing the truck to skid. As a result, the truck’s trailer swings out and blocks multiple lanes of traffic, increasing the likelihood of a collision with other vehicles.
Various factors, including driver error, speeding, improper loading of cargo, or adverse weather conditions, can cause these types of accidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a jackknife truck accident, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of a jackknife truck accident attorney in San Antonio to explore your legal options.
Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents
Jackknife accidents are often the result of negligent actions, either by the driver, the trucking company, or another party involved.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Speeding: When truck drivers travel too fast for road conditions, they may not have enough time to slow down or stop, leading to a jackknife accident.
- Braking Errors: If a truck driver brakes too suddenly or improperly, especially on wet or icy roads, the truck’s trailer can swing out of control.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloaded or unevenly loaded cargo can throw off a truck’s balance, making it more prone to jackknife.
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours, and fatigue can impair their ability to react quickly in emergencies.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, ice, and snow make roads slippery, increasing the chances of a jackknife accident.
Regardless of the cause, having a qualified accident lawyer in San Antonio by your side is essential to investigate the incident and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Texas Trucking Laws and Regulations
Both state and federal laws govern truck accidents. Texas has specific regulations designed to protect the safety of truck drivers and other motorists. As a top-rated truck accident lawyer in San Antonio, we are well-versed in these laws and can use them to your advantage.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules for the trucking industry. These regulations cover areas such as:
- Hours of Service: Truck drivers are limited in how many hours they can drive without taking a break. Violating these rules can lead to driver fatigue and increase the risk of accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles to prevent mechanical failures that could contribute to accidents.
- Driver Training: Truck drivers must undergo specialized training to safely handle large vehicles, particularly under adverse conditions.
Texas-Specific Trucking Laws
In addition to federal regulations, Texas has its laws that truck drivers and trucking companies must follow:
- Speed Limits: Texas enforces specific speed limits for trucks, particularly in urban areas like San Antonio. Failing to comply with these speed limits can result in a jackknife accident.
- Weight Limits: Trucks must comply with Texas’s weight limits, which are designed to prevent overloading. An overloaded truck is more difficult to control and more likely to jackknife.
Common Injuries in Jackknife Truck Accidents
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, jackknife accidents often result in serious, life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries we see in these cases include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries can range from concussions to more severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive issues and emotional distress.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, drastically changing the victim’s quality of life.
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in high-impact collisions, especially in large truck accidents.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a jackknife collision can cause damage to internal organs, which may require extensive medical treatment.
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: While these injuries may seem minor, they can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues if left untreated.
If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries in a truck accident, contacting the best injury lawyer in San Antonio, Texas, should be your next step. We ensure you receive proper compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Pursuing Compensation After a Jackknife Truck Accident
After a jackknife truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. However, trucking companies and their insurance providers often have teams of lawyers whose sole purpose is to minimize payouts.
As your San Antonio jackknife truck accident attorney, we will fight to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation.
We can help you pursue the following types of compensation:
- Medical Expenses: This includes hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any other medical treatments necessary for recovery.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, including future earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: Jackknife truck accidents can cause not only physical pain but also emotional trauma. We will work to ensure you are compensated for your suffering.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, we will seek compensation for repairs or replacements.
- Wrongful Death: If a loved one was tragically killed in a jackknife truck accident, we can help you file a wrongful death claim to seek justice on their behalf.
Why Choose Us as Your San Antonio Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer?
At Patterson Law Group, we pride ourselves on being the top-rated truck accident lawyer in San Antonio. We have a proven track record of success in helping victims of truck accidents, and we are committed to providing personalized attention to each of our clients. Here’s why you should choose us to represent you:
- Experience: With years of experience handling complex truck accident cases, we have the knowledge and experience to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
- Resources: Truck accident cases often require extensive investigation and the use of expert witnesses. We have the resources necessary to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Compassion: This is a difficult time for you and your family. We are here to provide compassionate legal representation and guide you through the process every step of the way.
- Results-Driven: Our primary goal is to secure the compensation you deserve. We will not stop fighting until we achieve the best result for you.
Get the Help You Need from a Top San Antonio Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife truck accident, don’t wait to get legal help. Contact Patterson Law Group today to speak with a truck accident attorney near you. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay us unless we win your case.
Call us now or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with the best San Antonio, Texas, injury lawyer. Let us fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
