Anderson Injury Lawyers | September 2, 2025 | Truck Accident
Jackknife truck accidents represent some of the most dangerous incidents on Dallas highways. These crashes occur when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle to the cab, resembling the folding motion of a jackknife. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks make these accidents particularly devastating for other drivers.
Understanding what causes these accidents and your rights afterward can help protect you and your family on the road.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife occurs when a truck’s trailer and cab fold together at the hitch point. The trailer essentially pivots around the connection point with the cab. This creates an L-shape or V-shape formation that blocks multiple lanes of traffic.
The physics behind jackknifing involves the trailer’s momentum carrying it forward while the cab slows down or changes direction. When this happens, the truck becomes impossible to control. The driver loses the ability to steer or brake effectively.
These accidents often result in multi-vehicle collisions. Other drivers have little time to react when a massive truck suddenly blocks their path.
Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents
Several factors contribute to jackknife truck accidents in Texas. Understanding these causes can help drivers recognize dangerous situations on the road.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions play a significant role in these accidents:
- Sudden rainstorms create slippery road surfaces
- Icy conditions reduce tire traction dramatically
- Wet roads make it easier for trailers to slide sideways
- Poor visibility during storms limits reaction time
Because the weather often changes quickly in Texas, drivers must be prepared to adjust their speed and handling when conditions worsen.
Driver Error
Driver error accounts for many jackknife incidents. Common mistakes include sudden braking at high speeds, taking turns too quickly, and making abrupt steering movements. Fatigue and distraction also contribute to poor decision-making behind the wheel.
Equipment Failure
Equipment failure represents another major cause. Issues that increase jackknife risk include:
- Faulty or worn brake systems
- Improperly maintained coupling systems
- Worn or defective tires
- Overloaded cargo that shifts during transport
- Improperly distributed weight in the trailer
Poor road conditions contribute to these accidents as well. Construction zones, potholes, or debris can cause drivers to make sudden movements that trigger jackknifing.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Determining liability in jackknife accidents involves examining multiple parties. The truck driver bears responsibility if their negligent actions caused the crash. This includes speeding, distracted driving, or violating hours-of-service regulations.
Trucking companies may be liable for inadequate training or pushing drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines. They’re also responsible for properly maintaining their fleet and ensuring drivers follow safety protocols.
Equipment manufacturers could be liable if defective parts contributed to the accident. This includes faulty brakes, defective tires, or malfunctioning coupling systems. Cargo loading companies may bear responsibility if improper loading caused the jackknife.
Government entities might be liable for poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage. Multiple parties often share responsibility in these complex cases.
Types of Injuries in Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents frequently result in severe injuries due to the massive forces involved. The combination of speed, weight, and sudden impact creates devastating consequences for victims.
Common injuries from these accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries from head impacts during a collision
- Spinal cord injuries that may cause partial or complete paralysis
- Multiple bone fractures requiring surgical intervention
- Internal organ damage to the liver, spleen, or lungs
- Severe lacerations and crushing injuries
- Psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Recovery times can stretch from months to years, depending on the severity of the injuries sustained.
Steps to Take After a Jackknife Accident
Taking the right steps immediately after a jackknife accident can protect your health and legal rights. Your actions in these crucial moments may significantly impact any future legal claims.
Immediate safety measures should include:
- Moving to a safe location away from traffic if possible
- Calling 911 to report the accident and request medical help
- Seeking medical evaluation even if you feel uninjured initially
- Staying alert for signs of shock or delayed injury symptoms
Documentation becomes critical for building a strong legal case:
- Take photos of all vehicle damage and the accident scene
- Capture images of road conditions and weather factors
- Get contact information from witnesses who saw the crash
- Obtain the truck driver’s license and insurance information
- Record the trucking company’s name and DOT number
Avoid discussing fault or making statements about what happened. Insurance companies may use these statements against you later. Stick to basic facts when speaking with police officers.
Contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Federal trucking regulations create strict requirements for drivers and companies. An attorney can investigate whether violations contributed to your accident.
Contact the Dallas Truck Accident Lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth or Dallas and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.
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