18-Wheelers and Jackknifing
On the road, there are few vehicles that are more potentially dangerous than 18-wheeler tractor-trailers. Their extraordinary length, height, and weight mean that they are capable of causing far more damage in the event of a crash than the typical passenger care. The length, in particular, creates a problem for truck drivers as it creates the possibility that the rear of an 18-wheeler might swing out of line with the front of the truck, colloquially known as “jackknifing”.
If you have been hurt in a jackknife accident caused by a negligent commercial truck driver, a civil lawsuit might be appropriate. For a free consultation regarding your legal options, contact the Houston truck accident attorneys of Williams Kherkher at 800-696-5341 today.
Preventing Jackknifing Accidents
Jackknife accidents can occur whenever the back tires of a truck lose traction. This might be triggered by the condition of the road. For example, rain, snow, and ice can all compromise the ability of an 18-wheeler’s tires to grip the road surface. In these instances, truck drivers need to take extra caution operating their vehicle, and this is always the case when negotiating turns which require the temporary misalignment of trailer and cab. Other problems may be related to mechanical failures.
To prevent these accidents, the following safety measures may be implemented:
- Automatic angle locks that keep the trailer from sliding out
- Anti-lock brakes for better control
- Reducing speed when road conditions dictate that such action is appropriate
- Reducing speed when taking particularly tight turns
The failure to properly equip one’s truck or to adopt appropriate driving behaviors for the situation at hand constitutes negligence that may warrant the pursuit of legal action.
Contact Us
If you have been injured on the road because of a preventable jackknife accident, you might be able to gain financial compensation through a legal action. Contact the Houston truck accident attorneys of Williams Kherkher by calling 800-696-5341.