Trucking plays a key role in the local economy, and as a result, truck accidents are of critical concern. While every type of truck accident can be serious, jackknife truck accidents in Modesto are uniquely dangerous. When a massive tractor-trailer folds in on itself on the road, it puts everyone in the vicinity at immense risk of catastrophic injuries.
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a jackknife truck accident, do not wait to consult with an experienced truck collision attorney at Valero Law Group.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Semi-trucks consist of a cab and a trailer connected by a large hitch. This hitch allows both parts to move in unison while also affording greater maneuverability around curves and when taking turns. When a truck driver loses control of the machine they are operating, the trailer can swing out and close in on the cab, similar to how a jackknife closes. It is difficult to accurately imagine the risks associated with this type of crash.
The underlying cause of most jackknife accidents in Modesto is often the truck driver speeding and losing control. This can mean exceeding the posted speed limit or failing to adjust speed downward in response to bad weather or poorly maintained roads.
The Impact on the Roadway
When a truck driver loses control of their rig, the impact of the resulting accident is difficult to predict. A trailer that swings wide from its cab can cross several lanes of traffic in the process, which makes a multi-vehicle accident far more likely. At the same time, the cab and trailer generate significant power, which impacts with other vehicles to cause very serious injuries to motorists. Jackknife crashes are among the most dangerous truck accidents, causing deadly pileups that can close down Modesto’s highways for hours and change lives forever.
Common Injuries
The injuries resulting from a Modesto jackknife truck collision are often life-altering. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Complex bone fractures
- Internal injuries, including organ damage
- Severe burns that can be permanently disfiguring
- Limb loss or injuries that require amputation
The type and severity of your injuries will play a direct role in determining the value of your claim. Do not delay seeking medical treatment.
Compensation for Your Losses
If a truck driver leaves you injured in a jackknife accident, you should obtain fair compensation for your losses from the trucking company and other parties. This involves carefully outlining your legal damages.
Property Damage
Your vehicle could easily be totaled in a truck jackknife accident. You should also factor in any losses related to the contents of your car.
Medical Expenses
The more serious your injuries, the more extensive your medical expenses will be. It is not unusual for these costs to be ongoing with future medical bills.
Lost Income
While you are obtaining the medical care you need, you may be off the job and will likely experience lost income as a result. If your ability to do your job in the future is affected, you can seek compensation for lost future earnings as well.
Physical and Emotional Pain and Suffering
The physical and emotional pain and suffering of serious injuries from a traumatic crash can be significant. Even though pain and suffering does not correlate with financial expenses or losses, it is a compensable loss. Your Modesto lawyer can calculate the appropriate value of your intangible losses after a jackknife truck crash.
Call an Experienced Modesto Lawyer After a Jackknife Truck Crash
Jackknife truck accidents in Modesto change lives. If you sustained injuries when a truck driver lost control of their rig, a trusted truck accident attorney can help. The experienced team at Valero Law Group has earned an impressive reputation for obtaining optimal claim outcomes and is here to help you. Please do not hesitate to contact the firm today.
Valero Law Group
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