Have You or a Loved One Suffered Injuries in a Truck Collision? Our Colorado Springs Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Commercial trucks are massive in size and weight, so when these vehicles are involved in a wreck, it can quickly lead to severe injuries or even death. There are various types of commercial truck accidents that can occur, however, jackknife collisions are one of the most common.
A jackknife collision happens when the trailer of a truck goes in one direction and the cab portion of the truck goes in the opposite direction. In many cases, when an 18-wheeler jackknifes, it will overturn, which can be dangerous for the trucker and any other nearby drivers.
If you or a loved one was involved in a tractor-trailer accident and sustained injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Colorado Springs truck accident attorneys at Heuser & Heuser understand the difficulties injured people face after truck accidents. Continue reading to learn more about jackknifing accidents and your legal options.
Truck Accident Statistics
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shared the following statistical data from 2017:
- A total of 4,102 people died in large truck crashes. 17 percent of these deaths were truck occupants, 68 percent were occupants of cars and other passenger vehicles, and 14 percent were pedestrians, bicyclists or motorcyclists.
- 11 percent of all motor vehicle crash deaths occurred in large truck crashes.
- 52 percent of deaths in large truck crashes occurred on major roads other than interstates and freeways.
These statistics prove the seriousness of truck collisions and how common they are on our roadways.
Causes of Jackknife Accidents
There are multiple reasons as to why jackknife accidents happen. Some of the most common include:
Hazardous Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can impact a truck driver’s ability to safely operate their vehicle. Hazardous conditions, such as rain and snow, create slippery roads that can cause trucks to slide, hydroplane, or jackknife.
Curves
Sharp curves can increase a trucker’s chances of losing control. 18-wheelers frequently jackknife while navigating large curves.
Equipment Failure
In some cases, commercial vehicles experience malfunctions, such as brake failure, that can cause drivers to lose control. This can result in jackknifing or other serious accidents.
High-speed Limits
When an 18-wheeler travels over 55 miles per hour, it makes it difficult to stop. Unlike regular vehicles that can quickly come to a stop, truckers who slam their brakes increase their chances of the trailer jackknifing.
When a tractor-trailer jackknifes, it can result in an accident and serious injuries. If you were involved in a jackknifing accident, it’s imperative to contact our experienced Colorado Springs truck accident attorneys, immediately. This type of case is time-sensitive and may involve multiple parties.
Common Injuries From an 18-Wheeler Accident
Some of the most common injuries resulting from big rig collisions include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuriesÂ
- Cuts and lacerations
- Wrongful death
If you’re injured in a wreck with a large commercial vehicle, it’s essential to know how to proceed.
5 Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident
Oftentimes, people are unsure about how to handle the moments after a truck accident. In some cases, people damage their chances of obtaining compensation because they made rash decisions following their accident. Due to the frequency of truck collisions, our team has provided a list of steps that may help protect your legal rights and increase your chances of obtaining compensation, if you’re eligible.
1. Remain at the Scene and Check for Injuries
Fleeing the scene of a wreck can not only significantly impact your potential claim but cause you to face charges.
Immediately after a collision occurs, it’s also important to check to see if anyone involved is injured, including yourself, other drivers, and any passengers.
2. Call Emergency Responders
After checking for injuries, make sure to contact emergency responders. Once help arrives, they can transport anyone that needs medical attention to a local hospital. When the police arrive, they will review the scene of the accident and write a report. The police report will state the details of the accident and other important information that can possibly be used to support your claim.
3. Exchange Contact Information
Remember to ask for contact information from all those involved, including insurance information, driver’s license numbers, and phone numbers. Also, be sure to write down the name of the trucking company.
4. Collect Evidence
Evidence is crucial if you decide to seek compensation for damages. Without enough evidence, it will be difficult to support your claim. Some examples of evidence include:
- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
- Police report
- Witness statements
- Medical bills
- Truck driver logs
- Inspection reports
5. Contact an experienced Colorado Springs Truck Accident Attorney
Semi-trailer accidents are often complex and involve many details. While you can attempt to handle the insurance companies alone, your chances of receiving the justice you deserve are much higher with a knowledgeable lawyer on your side. Our team can review every aspect of your case and inform you of your legal options. If you’re eligible to obtain compensation for damages, we will fight on your behalf and strive to obtain a fair amount for the pain you’ve endured.
Who Is Held Legally Responsible?
Establishing liability after a tractor-trailer accident can be challenging, especially when more than one party played a role in the collision. Some of the parties that could possibly be found at fault include:
- The truck driver
- The owner of the 18-wheeler
- The manufacturer
- The loader and/or shipper
Handling multiple parties that have had a part in your accident, can be stressful and overwhelming. Our team highly recommends that you contact our firm to help you determine which party and/or parties are liable.
Injured in a Tractor-Trailer Accident? Contact Our Law Firm
At Heuser & Heuser, we are dedicated to helping those injured in trucking accidents face the insurance companies and get what they deserve. Our personal injury law firm understands the many challenges that people experience after an accident, but you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone.
To learn more about your legal rights, call our law office at 719-520-9909, or fill out our free case evaluation form. Our Colorado Springs truck accident attorneys look forward to speaking with you about your case.
