A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab. This typically happens when the truck skids or loses traction. Common causes include:
Sudden braking on slick roads
Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
Driver fatigue or inattention
Equipment failure such as brake or hitch malfunction
Speeding or oversteering
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, jackknife crashes often result in multi-vehicle pileups, severe injuries, and long-term consequences for victims.
If you or a loved one suffered harm in a jackknife truck accident in Fresno, you may be entitled to significant compensation. The Fresno personal injury attorneys at Freedman Law can represent you in your claim against the negligent driver and their employer, helping you secure the settlement you deserve.
Common Injuries in Jackknife Collisions
Victims of jackknife accidents frequently suffer life-altering injuries. These may include:
Many victims face extended recovery times and permanent disability.
Liability in Fresno Jackknife Accidents
Determining liability in a jackknife truck accident requires a thorough investigation. Under California negligence law, multiple parties may share responsibility:
Truck Driver
May be liable for speeding, distracted driving, or failing to follow hours-of-service regulations.
Trucking Company
May face liability for negligent hiring, improper maintenance, or failure to train.
Cargo Loaders
May be responsible if improperly secured cargo contributed to the accident.
Truck Manufacturers
May be liable if mechanical defects caused the jackknife.
California follows a pure comparative fault system. This means that an injured party may still recover damages even if they were partially at fault for the crash. However, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a victim is found 20 percent at fault, their total recovery will be reduced by 20 percent. This is why it’s so important to have a jackknife accident lawyer in Fresno on your side, to protect your rights and push back against unfair blame.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Injury victims may seek both economic and non-economic damages. A successful claim can recover:
Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Property damage
Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Permanent disability
In cases involving gross negligence, such as driving under the influence or deliberate safety violations, additional compensation known as punitive damages may also be available.
Why Hire a Fresno Jackknife Accident Attorney?
Trucking companies and their insurers act quickly to protect their interests after a crash. They often send investigators immediately to gather evidence and shift blame. Without experienced legal representation, there is a risk of accepting a settlement that does not reflect the true value of your case. A Fresno jackknife accident lawyer manages every aspect of your claim, including:
Investigates the crash thoroughly
Preserves and obtains critical evidence
Consults medical and trucking industry experts
Handles all communication with insurance adjusters
Prepares your case for trial if necessary
They will not back down from large trucking corporations. When corporations and their insurance companies know that a jackknife accident attorney in Fresno is prepared for court, they are more likely to offer a fair settlement.
Speak With a Fresno Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Freedman Law, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no legal fees unless we win your case. Call (559) 447-9000 today to schedule a free case review with a dedicated Fresno jackknife accident lawyer. Let us help you get justice and move forward with confidence.
