What Are Jackknife Truck Accidents?
In a jackknife crash, a truck’s cab and trailer fold at the connection point. This typically forms an L or V shape and often blocks several lanes of traffic. These wrecks are common on major Texas highways and frequently involve 18-wheelers or tractor-trailers.
Because of the size and force involved, jackknife crashes often result in serious injuries, multi-vehicle pileups, and fatalities.
Key Takeaways:
- Jackknife truck accidents happen when a truck’s trailer swings out, forming an L or V shape.
- These crashes often involve driver error, brake failure, or unsafe road conditions.
- Trucking companies, drivers, or parts manufacturers may be held liable.
- Quick legal action helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.
What Causes a Truck to Jackknife?
Jackknifing is rarely random. It’s usually triggered by one or more of the following:
Braking Errors
Hard or sudden braking can cause the truck to swing sideways. If the truck brakes are worn or malfunctioning, it’s even more dangerous. Some cases involve brake defects, which may point to the manufacturer’s liability.
Weather or Road Conditions
Wet roads, ice, and sharp curves reduce traction. On highways like I-35 or I-20, it doesn’t take much for a loaded truck to lose control.
Speed and Driver Mistakes
Driving too fast, especially downhill or while turning, increases the risk. Fatigue, distraction, and lack of experience also play a role in many jackknife crashes.
Jackknife truck accident causes aren’t always obvious at the scene, but they often become clear after reviewing truck data and maintenance logs.
Who’s Liable After a Jackknife Crash
Texas law allows multiple parties to be held responsible for a truck accident. Liability often depends on what caused the truck to lose control.
Possible Liable Parties
- The truck driver (for speeding, braking incorrectly, or driving while tired)
- The trucking company (for unsafe schedules, poor maintenance, or inadequate training)
- A parts manufacturer (if brake failure or hitch defects contributed)
- Another vehicle on the road (if their actions forced the truck into a sudden stop)
Texas Law and Fault
Texas uses modified comparative negligence, which means you can recover compensation as long as you’re less than 51% at fault. If more than one party is responsible, they may be required to share the costs of your injuries and losses.
This makes a thorough investigation critical in every case.
What Evidence Matters Most?
Proving fault in a jackknife crash isn’t always straightforward. That’s why preserving evidence right after the wreck is so important.
Key forms of evidence include:
- Dashcam footage from the truck or nearby vehicles
- Black box data, which logs speed, braking, and last-second movements
- Maintenance records, which may show skipped inspections or overdue repairs
- Police reports and witness statements, which can confirm what happened and how
Trucking companies often act quickly to protect themselves. A legal team can step in fast to preserve evidence before it’s lost or altered.
What to Do After Jackknife Truck Accidents
The minutes and hours after a truck crash are overwhelming. These steps can protect your health and your legal case:
- Call 911 and report the crash
- Get medical care immediately, even for minor pain
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
- Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible
Learn the 6 causes of the Jackknife Truck Accident
Why Legal Help Makes a Difference
Jackknife accident cases involve federal regulations, complex insurance policies, and large corporate defendants. Getting legal representation early helps level the playing field.
At Angel Reyes & Associates, we know how to:
- Retrieve and review black box data
- Demand preservation of critical evidence
- Identify all possible sources of liability
- Handle communications with trucking companies and insurers
You don’t have to fight through this on your own. And you never pay us unless we win your case.
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Final Thoughts
Jackknife truck crashes cause serious, often life-changing injuries. If you were hurt in one, the clock is ticking on evidence collection and legal deadlines.
We’ve helped thousands of Texans through the aftermath of truck collisions. We know the system—and we know how to fight back when insurance companies try to shift blame or delay justice.
Get your free consultation today. Let us focus on the legal side—so you can focus on recovery.
