When a truck driver suddenly applies their brakes, causing the attached trailer to skid and the trailer then swings around at a 90-degree angle to the cab of the truck and hits another car, a jackknife accident occurs. With little or no time to observe and react to what exactly is going on, jackknife truck accidents can be serious and even fatal.
If you were injured due to such an accident, you may benefit from contacting a well-versed West Palm Beach jackknife truck accident lawyer. A knowledgeable truck accident lawyer can help you examine the facts of your case to determine who is at fault for your injuries.
Statute of Limitations in a Truck Accident Case
After a jackknife truck accident, time is of the essence to pursue justice. As per Florida Statute § 95.11(3)(a) (2016), victims involved in a truck accident have four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Florida’s civil courts.
However, potential plaintiffs should contact a reliable West Palm Beach jackknife truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can relieve some stress by being the primary contact for insurance companies and law enforcement. This allows victims the time they need to heal.
Additionally, the sooner someone speaks with an attorney, the greater the potential that evidence vital to a truck case could be collected and preserved. Having this evidence may help increase the chance of a recovering damages.
Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents in West Palm Beach
As one of the most dangerous of all accidents involving semi-trucks, jackknifing can be caused by several different factors or even a combination of factors. There are several common causes of these accidents. Whether an accident is the result of driver negligence, unsafe practices of the trucking company, or a failure in manufacturing, the responsible party can be held liable for the damage they caused
Distracted or Drowsy Driving
Truck drivers must pay special attention to all that is going on around them. If they fail to anticipate or observe the speed and flow of traffic, they may need to brake suddenly. This sudden braking can directly contribute to a jackknife accident.
Brake Conditions
Brakes have a vital job, especially in such a large vehicle that can carry a lot of weight. Brakes that have not been properly inspected or maintained may fail when they are needed the most.
Speeding
Even more so than standard sized vehicles, trucks can become quite dangerous when they are traveling at excessive speeds. Truck drivers need to drive at or under the speed limit. They are also expected to slow down when road conditions are less than ideal.
Talk to a West Palm Beach Jackknife Truck Accident Attorney
You may feel alone after a truck accident, but you do not have to be. An experienced West Palm Beach jackknife truck accident lawyer can help hold the driver of the truck who caused your accident accountable for their actions.
If the negligence and poor choices of the truck driver has led to your injuries and expenses, they should compensate you for your medical bills and your pain and suffering. Contact a knowledgeable lawyer today to learn more about how they could hold the defendant accountable in your accident.
Speak to a member of our team today.