While any accident involving a commercial vehicle can lead to devastating consequences, certain collisions have a greater potential impact than others. Jackknife truck accidents in Ventura can put numerous parties at risk, including pedestrians and drivers of passenger cars that are in the path of an out-of-control truck.
A jackknife accident occurs when the cab of an 18-wheeler begins traveling in a different direction from the trailer. This usually leads the truck to fold in on itself like a knife and slide out of control. The resulting injuries can be life-altering. Working with a trusted truck accident attorney allows you to focus on healing while we take the lead in all the legal matters. Contact our compassionate team today for the guidance you deserve.
Jackknife accidents in Ventura typically occur when the trailer of a large truck swings out to form a sharp angle with the cab, resembling a folding pocketknife. This dangerous situation often results in the truck blocking multiple lanes of traffic and causing multi-vehicle collisions. Jackknifing can happen for several reasons, but it is most commonly linked to sudden braking, slippery road surfaces, and improper handling. When a driver brakes too hard or too quickly, the trailer can skid out of alignment with the cab. Speeding downhill or taking a curve too fast can also shift the truck’s center of gravity and cause a loss of control.
In some cases, equipment failure, such as faulty brakes or uneven cargo distribution, contributes to the accident. Ventura’s coastal climate, with its occasional rain and fog, may further increase the risk by reducing traction and visibility. Driver inexperience or fatigue also plays a role, particularly when sudden maneuvers are needed to avoid other vehicles or road hazards. Once a jackknife begins, it can be extremely difficult to correct, making it one of the most dangerous types of truck accidents.
Injuries that occur as a result of a Ventura jackknife truck accident are frequently devastating for those involved. Like with any truck accident, the impact from these commercial vehicles can have catastrophic consequences. The risk of serious injuries is made worse in these cases, given the wide path of destruction that a jackknifing truck can leave. When a truck driver loses control of their vehicle and begins to slide sideways, it can collide with cars, bicycles, or pedestrians across multiple lanes of traffic. Some of the conditions that are especially common in these cases include:
Each of these injuries could lead to a successful civil claim against a negligent truck driver. The right attorney could help you get the most out of your case.
Your personal injury claim is designed to help you recover all of your losses in the aftermath of a crash. In total, you could be entitled to damages based on your physical, emotional, and financial losses. Some examples include:
Let an attorney review your case and help you understand the types of damages that might be available to you.
These incidents can have traumatic consequences, but seeking justice on your own is a major mistake. Your best chance of securing the compensation you deserve is with the help of a seasoned attorney.
Reach out to our firm as soon as possible to discuss your jackknife truck accident in Ventura. With the right support, you could get the recovery you deserve.
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