Seeing an 18-wheeler fold into itself across multiple lanes is terrifying, especially when you are in the path of that deadly curve. Jackknife truck accidents in Calabasas happen quickly, often giving drivers little or no time to react. Caused by the trailer swinging out at an angle to the cab, these accidents can block entire highways, crush smaller vehicles, and leave victims facing life-altering injuries.
If you were injured in a jackknife crash, you are likely dealing with more than just vehicle damage and may need help from an attorney. While you are losing income and recovering from potentially serious injuries, a lawyer could help you navigate an insurance system that works against you.
Jackknifing occurs when a truck’s trailer swings outward—often at a sharp angle—creating a shape similar to a folding knife. This typically happens when lost traction or braking control causes the wheels to lock or the trailer to slide.
Many jackknife accidents in Calabasas stem from:
The freeway curves, downhill slopes, and fast-moving traffic around Calabasas create a high-risk environment for jackknife crashes, so once an incident begins, the truck driver often loses all ability to steer or stop, placing everyone nearby in danger.
The force behind a jackknifing truck is immense, turning a moving trailer into a sweeping wall of steel. These accidents frequently involve multi-car pileups, rollovers, and fuel spills. For the occupants of smaller vehicles, the consequences are often devastating.
Victims of jackknife crashes in Calabasas may suffer:
Surviving such an accident is just the beginning—living through the recovery can be long, painful, and emotionally draining. Mounting medical bills, endless therapy appointments, and lost wages exacerbate the trauma.
Determining fault in jackknife incidents is rarely simple. While the truck driver may be the most visible player, other parties are often partially—or entirely—responsible. Cargo loaders, maintenance crews, or the trucking company itself may have contributed to the crash through carelessness or outright negligence.
In Calabasas, investigating jackknife crashes involves pulling black box (ECM) data to track speed, braking, and steering, reviewing maintenance logs to spot brake or tire issues, analyzing cargo weight and balance for overloading violations, interviewing witnesses and first responders, and reviewing any video or dashcam footage available. Truck companies often act fast after an accident, sending lawyers and investigators to protect their interests. Contacting an attorney right away could enable them to protect your interests.
Although you generally have two years to file a claim, waiting is risky. Substantial evidence may disappear, witnesses may move or forget what they saw, and insurance companies may twist the facts to minimize your claim. By working with a Calabasas truck accident attorney early, you could preserve vital crash data and road evidence and prevent the destruction or alteration of key records.
With time going against you, taking action quickly gives your lawyer time to build a strong, fact-driven case. Swift Justice could help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your claim, such as speaking to the insurer directly, and protect your rights as you recover.
You should not have to face the aftermath of jackknife truck accidents in Calabasas alone—our team is here to support you. At Swift Justice, we fight for people—not companies—ensuring negligent parties are held accountable for the damage they cause.
Reach out to us today to arrange a free consultation. Our compassionate lawyers are ready to help you move forward with confidence and strength.
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