- Hurt in a Jackknife Accident?
- What is Jackknifing?
- How Does Negligence Contribute to a Jackknifing Accident?
- Holding At-Fault Parties Accountable
- Legal Advice After a Trucking Accident in LA County
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Hurt in a Jackknife Accident?
Multiple devastating scenarios can occur when a big-rig or tractor-trailer loses control. Surrounding drivers may not know how to respond to such a frightening situation, especially when the trailer swings out to the side, swiping nearby passenger vehicles and creating an almost unavoidable road hazard for oncoming traffic. Even the most defensive driver may end up swerving off the road to avoid collisions with semi-trucks and still end up getting hurt.
At Aghabegian Law Group, P.C. we take these kinds of cases very seriously and have a proven track record of handling vehicle collisions in Los Angeles County. If you injured in a trucking jackknife accident caused by a reckless driver or trucking company, get in contact with one of our Glendale jackknife accident attorneys by calling (818) 350-HURT (350-4878). We will use all our expertise and knowledge to fight for your right to compensation from negligent truck operators or trucking companies.
What is Jackknifing?
We often get asked to define this term in everyday language. A semi-truck hauling a load can weigh up to 80,000 pounds under federal guidelines, but the average weight of a tractor-trailer load is under 73,000 pounds. If a truck driver suddenly brakes, the entire vehicle will be challenged to stop on a dime. The greater weight of the load in the middle and rear of the trailer causes the trailer to swing around to the right or left – like the way a jackknife is opened. As the tractor-trailer comes to a halt, there is a resulting jackknife shape.
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How Does Negligence Contribute to a Jackknifing Accident?
Driving a big-rig requires specialized training, regular maintenance, and the utmost attention to detail. If a driver becomes distracted, even briefly, they may brake at the wrong time, causing a jackknife. Or, if the truck was improperly loaded and the weight is unbalanced, the trailer can come crashing into the back of the semi when it brakes, causing it to swing to either side. Often, these types of accidents occur because of some type of negligence, either on part of the driver, the trucking company, or the company responsible for inspecting and repairing the truck.
Common causes of truck jackknifing may include:
- An inexperienced or inadequately trained driver
- An impaired driver
- A careless or distracted driver
- An improperly loaded trailer
- Vehicle or equipment malfunction
- A driver attempting to stop to avoid another vehicle, person, or object in its path
- Rain, oil, or debris on the road
- Unmaintained construction zones
- Uneven terrain
Holding At-Fault Parties Accountable
Jackknife accidents are complicated incidents and understanding who is liable may take some time. California law allows victims up to two years to file a personal injury claim and while that may seem like a long time, we always advise victims to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Key pieces of evidence will need to be secured early to ensure not a single detail is missed, such as initial police reports, traffic camera footage, photos from the scene of the accident, and witness statements.
Once this information has been collected, we can carefully review every piece of evidence and build a strong case for full compensation. We will also take into account all related costs you suffered because of the accident, from your medical bills to any diminished quality of life you are dealing with. When we have finished preparing your case, we will begin negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurance company to come to terms on a proper settlement on your behalf. We will keep you aware of any offers and updates throughout the process and will not accept an offer until you are in full agreement with it. At the end of the day, our biggest priority is ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve, while also making sure you are not burdened by legal worries.
Legal Advice After a Trucking Accident in LA County
If you or a loved one were involved in a jackknifing accident, then you need strong legal representation at your side to fight for fair and proper compensation. At Aghabegian Law Group, P.C., our team of Glendale truck accident attorneys will take the time to sit down with you during a free consultation. We will go over the events of the accident, the nature of your injuries, your fears and worries about dealing with insurance companies, and assist you in preparing a strong personal injury case. Call us at (818) 350-HURT (350-4878) to secure experienced legal representation after an accident.
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Contact us today for a free consultation. We offer our services on a contingency fee basis-if we don’t recover compensation for you, you don’t pay. Call (818) 350-HURT (350-4878) to learn more.