Florida Jackknife Trucking Accidents Jeopardize Motorists
Florida drivers who routinely share their morning or afternoon commute with big rigs are keenly aware that their safety is in jeopardy. Drivers need only witness a jackknifing trucking accident once, before they understand that the reality and devastation reaches far beyond what they see in action packed movies. Cautious drivers are rightfully concerned based on the evidence listed below.
U.S. Department of Transportation Trucking Accident Statistics:
- Passenger vehicles absorb 98% of trucking accident fatalities.
- 500,000 trucking accidents occur yearly.
- 5,000 trucking accidents result in fatalities.
Commercial trucks involved in jackknifing are 18-wheelers, tractor trailers, tanker trucks, dump trucks, delivery vehicles, semi trucks, and large freight trucks.
Jackknifing trucking accidents in South Florida cause the most serious injuries. This can happen when a semi truck or 18-wheeler skids out of control.
When the trailer swings to one side, it can spin around, facing backwards, thus forming an angle that appears like the blade of a jackknife. All too often, the truck is going at a speed that causes a rollover accident, making all drivers vulnerable to serious injury and even death.
What Causes Jackknife Trucking Accidents?
Broward County trucking accidents typically occur for several reasons. Often, when the road conditions are wet and slippery, wheels can lock up. Although the road conditions make it difficult for the truck to navigate, the jackknifing accident is often due to the truck driver’s negligence. When the truck driver slams on the brakes, it causes the brakes to lock up and unable to release in time to prevent the back trailer from swinging out.
Another cause of jackknife truck accidents occur when the driver’s brakes go out. If there is no other way to stop, the driver may intentionally jackknife his truck in order to make it stop. Sadly, other innocent drivers pay the hefty price of pain and devastation when they are blind-sided by the impact caused by a huge semi truck.
Get Help!
Serious injuries absorbed from trucking accidents involve head injury, brain trauma, multiple fractures, and spinal injuries, along with many more.
If you have been involved in a jackknife trucking accident in South Florida, chances are you sustained serious injuries from a life-threatening experience. In worse case scenarios, you may have a friend or loved one who suffered wrongful death from a trucking accident.
If you have been in a jackknifing trucking accident in South Florida it is important to talk with an experienced South Florida Trucking Accident Attorney. Your attorney can help you prepare your paperwork to get the results you are looking for.
Contact the Law Offices of David Benenfeld to find out what your legal rights are and how to receive help. Call: 954-677-0155 to meet with a skilled trucking accident attorney.
