Explaining The Dangers Of A Florida Truck That Jackknifes

Large trucks, such as tractor-trailers, are responsible for some of the most catastrophic accidents on Florida roadways. The leading cause of death in trucking accidents is due to jackknifing, which occurs when a truck with a cab and a trailer folds in on itself at the point where the two parts join together. It results in the cab and trailer forming a ninety-degree angle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) report, approximately 10% of truck occupant fatalities are related to a jackknifing incident.

Causes of Jackknifing

Common causes of jackknifing include:

Speeding: A speeding truck can take a significant amount of time to slow down if a driver needs to stop quickly. When the driver slams on the brakes, they may lock up, causing the truck to jackknife.
Inclement Weather: Slippery roads and high winds can cause hazardous conditions leading to a jackknifing accident.
Cargo: Improperly secured cargo, or improperly weighted down load, can shift on the bed of a truck, causing the shipment to move around and cause an accident.
Curvy Roadways: Sharp curves can cause a truck with an extended trailer to swing, especially when the angle of the road is very steep.
Equipment Failure: All equipment on a truck should have regular maintenance and any worn or defective parts replaced. However, even with these precautions, the equipment can sometimes fail, causing a tractor-trailer to jackknife.

Injuries Common in Jackknifing Accidents

Injuries incurred in jackknifing accidents have a high probability of being catastrophic. Some of the injuries most commonly seen in these accidents include:

Brain and Head Injuries: Injuries to the brain and head, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), skull fractures, broken bones in the face and head, and concussions.
Internal Injuries: Injuries are often sustained to internal organs due to broken ribs and seat belt injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord causing partial or complete paralysis of the limbs.
Lacerations & Burns: Lacerations, cuts, and burns are common occurrences.

Ways to Prevent A Jackknifing Accident

There are steps that truck drivers can take to reduce the risk of a jackknifing accident. They include:

Proper maintenance of equipment
Driving the speed limit, or less, especially when weather is bad
Keeping a safe distance from vehicles traveling in front of them on the roadways, enabling them plenty of time to stop in case of an emergency
Ensure that all cargo is loaded correctly and its weight evenly distributed
Gradual use of brakes
When driving around a curve, go slowly and do not suddenly engage the use of the brakes

An Experienced Florida Truck Accident Attorney

If you have been injured in a trucking accident or lost a loved one in Florida roadways, you need guidance from an experienced Florida truck accident attorney. You may reach us by calling 239-323-9820 or via our contact page.