Accidents involving semi-trucks, or big rigs, are among the most devastating and complex types of collisions on the road. These large vehicles weigh tens of thousands of pounds and are capable of causing catastrophic damage, particularly when they crash.
With hundreds of semi-truck accidents occurring across Minnesota every year, it’s important to understand the causes of these accidents, the types of injuries involved, and the legal processes that follow. In particular, jackknife truck accidents are among the most common and most dangerous types of crashes involving semi-trucks.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the causes of semi-truck accidents and the types of injuries that can occur. Additionally, we’ll explore truck accident compensation claims, what steps to take if you are involved in a truck crash, and how truck accident lawyers in Minnesota can help you seek justice and compensation.
The Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Several factors can contribute to semi-truck accidents, and many of them are tied to the unique characteristics of large commercial trucks. The causes of these accidents can be broadly grouped into a few categories: driver error, weather conditions, mechanical failure, and road conditions. Understanding these factors can help individuals involved in accidents and their legal representatives better navigate the claims process.
Driver Error
One of the leading causes of semi-truck crashes is driver error. Commercial truck drivers face long hours on the road, which can result in fatigue and impaired judgment. In some cases, truck drivers may be pushing their limits to meet tight delivery deadlines, which leads to speeding, reckless driving, or unsafe driving behaviors. Some of the most common types of driver errors include:
- Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel can cause truck drivers to fall asleep or lose focus. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of semi-truck accidents and is often a factor in jackknife truck accidents.
- Speeding: Due to the size and weight of semi-trucks, speeding can cause loss of control. The heavier the truck, the longer it takes to stop, and speeding only exacerbates this issue.
- Distracted Driving: Just like any other vehicle on the road, truck drivers can become distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other distractions inside the cab. Distracted driving can result in truck accidents, including collisions with smaller vehicles or multi-vehicle accidents caused by jackknife crashes.
- Driving Under the Influence: While trucking companies impose strict regulations on their drivers, some truckers still operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This behavior significantly increases the risk of accidents and injuries.
Weather and Road Conditions
Another contributing factor to semi-truck accidents is adverse weather conditions. Rain, snow, fog, or icy roads can create hazardous driving conditions. Semi-trucks are more susceptible to losing traction in these conditions, especially if the truck driver is not experienced in handling such situations. Jackknife truck accidents often occur when the truck’s trailer slides out of control, causing the vehicle to form a sharp angle to the cab, which can block multiple lanes and cause devastating crashes.
In addition to weather, poorly maintained or damaged roads can be a hazard for truck drivers. Uneven roads, potholes, and improperly marked lanes can all contribute to accidents. Semi-trucks are more likely to be impacted by road conditions because of their size and weight. Multi-vehicle accidents from jackknife crashes are often the result of poor road conditions, as a truck loses control, sending debris and other vehicles into each other.
Mechanical Failure
Semi-truck mechanical failure can also contribute to accidents. The complexity of semi-trucks, which are composed of various systems such as the braking system, transmission, and suspension, makes them prone to wear and tear. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for preventing mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. In particular, brake failure or tire blowouts are common culprits of semi-truck accidents. When a truck loses its braking ability or one of its tires bursts, the driver loses control, leading to catastrophic accidents.
For example, a truck experiencing brake failure can easily slide into other vehicles, or a tire blowout can cause a truck to swerve and jackknife. Mechanical failures can be just as dangerous as driver error, and when they occur, the truck driver or the company may be held liable for damages caused.
The Dangers of Jackknife Truck Accidents
Jackknife truck accidents are among the most dangerous and deadly types of crashes involving semi-trucks. In a jackknife accident, the trailer of the truck swings to one side of the cab, often forming a 90-degree angle. This sudden shift in movement can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to catastrophic results. Jackknife accidents often occur when the truck’s brakes lock up or when the driver loses traction on wet or slippery roads. The result is a vehicle that is out of control, blocking lanes and creating a serious hazard for other drivers on the road.
The multi-vehicle accidents from jackknife crashes are often devastating. The wide range of debris that flies during a jackknife crash can lead to a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles. In some cases, other vehicles may be unable to avoid the wreckage, colliding with the truck or other cars involved. The severity of the accident increases when the truck is carrying hazardous materials or when the crash occurs in a heavily trafficked area.
The injuries sustained in jackknife truck accidents are often severe. The sheer weight and size of the truck’s trailer, combined with the speed at which it can move, can cause devastating injuries to anyone involved. The following are common injuries that occur during these types of accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Impact from a jackknife crash can cause brain injuries, leading to long-term cognitive impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries: The force from a jackknife crash can lead to broken bones or damaged spinal cords, which can result in partial or full paralysis.
- Internal injuries: Due to the extreme force of these crashes, victims often suffer internal bleeding or damage to vital organs.
- Broken bones and fractures: The impact of a truck crash can easily cause multiple fractures in different parts of the body, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Emotional trauma: Victims of truck accidents often face significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD, especially when the accident results in severe injuries or fatalities.
Truck Accident Compensation Claims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, particularly a jackknife truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. Truck accident compensation claims typically cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. However, pursuing a truck accident claim can be complex due to the multiple parties involved, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and potential manufacturers of defective parts.
Working with a truck accident lawyer in Minnesota is crucial to ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape, identify liable parties, and gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case. In many cases, the trucking company or the driver’s employer may be liable for the accident, especially if their negligence led to the crash.
Seeking Justice and Compensation After a Truck Accident
Truck accident lawyers in Minnesota play a crucial role in helping victims of truck crashes secure fair compensation. These lawyers handle cases involving large commercial vehicles and understand the intricacies of truck accident laws. They can conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the crash, whether it was due to driver error, poor maintenance, or mechanical failure.
A qualified truck accident lawyer will also help negotiate with insurance companies, which may attempt to offer low settlements. Trucking companies and their insurers often try to minimize payouts, and having an experienced lawyer by your side can help level the playing field. Moreover, your lawyer will work to hold all liable parties accountable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and possibly other responsible parties, such as manufacturers or maintenance contractors.
If you have been involved in a semi-truck crash, our personal injury attorneys are here for you. We can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that you have the best chance at a favorable outcome in your case. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
