Jackknife Truck Accidents in Burbank

When a trucker attempts to slam on the brakes or swerve to avoid hitting something, they could lose control of their vehicle, leading to a jackknife truck crash. These accidents happen when 18-wheelers fold where the cab and trailer meet, causing them to skid toward each other.

Jackknife truck accidents are often severe or deadly collisions, and when commercial truck operators’ recklessness causes others to sustain damages and losses, the court may hold them financially accountable. A lawyer seasoned in cases resulting from jackknife truck accidents in Burbank could provide legal guidance and information and help you throughout the claims process. Call today to speak with a hard-working truck accident attorney.

How Jackknife Truck Wrecks Happen

Commercial truckers must complete extensive behind-the-wheel training and pass written tests and health assessments before obtaining their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). While extensive training and routine maintenance can minimize the potential for collisions, they still happen on the roadways. Some of the typical causes of jackknife semi-truck crashes include the following:

• Driver fatigue
• Distracted driving
• Brake failure or tire blowouts
• Lack of training or experience
• Bad weather and slippery roads
• Unbalanced or overweight cargo
• Speeding, reckless driving, or failing to take safety precautions

Our diligent attorneys are highly skilled in handling jackknife truck collisions in Burbank and have the experience to determine the cause and at-fault party to hold them financially responsible.

Industry Rules and Heavy Commercial Vehicle Inspection Requirements

Federal and state laws seek to prevent avoidable truck accidents and work to keep the roads and highways safe for all drivers traveling within California. Commercial vehicles are challenging to handle and operate, and one minor error can quickly turn into a severe collision involving one or more cars. Allotted 18-wheeler inspections allow the driver to locate issues and submit the truck for repairs before accidents occur.

Ensuring the tractor-trailers are in safe and proper working order before and after each trip allows drivers to ensure they are ready for travel. The State of California Department of Motor Vehicles, Commercial Driver Handbook instructs that the pre-trip inspection must include checking the following:

• Each of the vehicle’s gauges
• Wheels, tires, and rims for damage or wear
• Brake and electrical connections to the trailer
• The truck’s brakes, exterior and interior lights, and reflectors
• Trailer coupling and securement devices to check for damage and proper functioning
• Use the senses to look, listen, feel, and smell for potential problems or hazardous equipment

Truckers must also complete post-trip inspections after each cargo and goods delivery. Jackknife truck crashes happen in Burbank for many reasons, and often, they are caused by negligence. A skilled truck crash attorney understands the commercial trucking industry and knows the proper records and documentation that must be collected to determine if a trucker adhered to federal and state laws.

Schedule a Meeting with a Burbank Attorney About Your Jackknife Truck Accident Claim

Proving negligence in cases against the commercial trucking industry can be challenging without assistance from a skilled attorney. They have lawyers and insurance companies ready to support them and deny or diminish the liability of the trucker or the company that employs them.

It is crucial to work with an experienced attorney for your jackknife truck accident in Burbank case who understands the nuances of negotiation and litigation to ensure you reach a favorable outcome. Call to schedule a consultation to review your case and available options.