Jackknifing Semi-Truck Accidents

Jackknifing is a common trucking accident term that refers to the dangerous situation when a semi-tractor trailer skids, causing the trailer to swing out to one side. The truck cab and the trailer end up at an angle that resembles the angle that the blade of a jackknife forms with its protective handle. If a truck jackknifes with any speed, there is a high likelihood of a rollover accident. Generally, jackknifing occurs when the truck's drive wheels lock up during wet or slippery conditions. While slippery road conditions can contribute to the potential for jackknifing, often jackknife trucking accidents are the result of negligence by the truck driver.

What Causes a Truck to Jackknife?

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck's drive wheels lock as the truck approaches a slick spot. The trailer continues to roll forward, causing the driver to lose control and the trailer to swing out to one side. During an emergency situation, a truck driver has three braking options.

• The driver can lock the steering axle brakes, causing the rig to move straight ahead regardless of wheel angle.
• The driver can lock the drive axles. Locking the drive axles commonly results in jackknife accidents.
• The driver can lock the trailer axles, causing the driver to lose directional control.

At the Foley Law Firm, our trucking accident attorneys understand that potential outcomes depend upon the driver's actions. Locking the steering axles clearly produces the most desirable outcome. Although the driver will not be able to steer the tractor, the truck and trailer will travel a straight, predictable path. If a trucking accident is caused by the driver locking the drive axles, he or she may be guilty of negligence. Contact a Pennsylvania semi-truck accident lawyer at Foley Law Firm if you have been injured in a jackknife accident.