Jackknife Accidents
Experience Portland attorneys here to help
Large trucks often share Portland area highways and routes with passenger vehicles. However, when a truck loses control on a busy interstate or heavily traveled road, the damage can be catastrophic. Jackknife truck accidents can occur with any large vehicle with a trailer hitched. They occur when the trailer spins out at a 90-degree angle, forming an L shape. This type of accident is very common when a truck carries an empty or light trailer that lacks traction. Once the trailer swings around, it can result in catastrophic damage to surrounding vehicles.
Zbinden & Curtis, Attorneys at Law are experienced at handling complex cases such as jackknife accidents. If the truck driver acted negligently, we will fight to hold him or her accountable. Contact us today and find out how we can help.
Cause of jackknife accidents
Jackknife accidents usually happen on slippery roads. When a truck driver attempts to make a sharp turn, brakes abruptly or swerves to avoid another vehicle, the trailer can spin out of control. Tire blowouts are also another common cause of jackknife accidents, causing the driver to lose control.
With enough force, the truck can rollover, creating a massive hazard to other drivers. Cargo can spill onto the roadway. The trailer can spin around and hit passenger vehicles. And often times, there is very little motorists can do to avoid a crash caused by a jackknife accident.
Why trust us
The injuries sustained in a jackknife accident can often be severe and life threatening. Crash victims often suffer from:
- Broken bones
- Spinal injuries
- Head injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Organ damage
- Paralysis
- Death
No matter how severe your injury may be, trucking companies – and their insurance providers – will attempt to downplay your claim. Trucking companies will go to great lengths to deny any wrongdoing on their driver’s part. With their own team of investigators, attorneys and adjustors, they will launch a prompt investigation and attempt to pin the blame on you. They may offer you a meager settlement in order to evade full compensation for your losses. But you should never accept a small settlement or speak to the trucking company’s insurance provider or attorneys. Anything you say can hurt your chances of fully recovering.
You need an experienced truck accident attorney on your side. If the trucking company and their insurance provider have any questions, we will be glad to answer them on your behalf so you can focus on recovery. Choosing the right attorney can be crucial to your case. Zbinden & Curtis, Attorneys at Law know how to gather important details involving jackknife accidents. We’ll work to build a strong case and hold trucking companies accountable for their negligence. Contact us to discuss your options and schedule a free case evaluation.