One of the most violent types of New Mexico trucking accidents is a jackknife trucking accident. This is when a large commercial vehicle has the trailer (where the cargo is) and the cabin (where the driver sits) fold into itself to form a right angle. The appearance of the cabin and trailer cutting into itself at an angle resembles an old folding “jackknife” which is why this type of trucking accident is known as a jackknife trucking accident. This can be one of the most deadly and devastating types of New Mexico trucking accidents that victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.
Dangers of Jackknife Trucking Crashes
Jackknife trucking crashes are some of the most dangerous types of big rig crashes. This is because a jackknife truck loses control and can cause serious personal injuries to innocent people ahead, to the side, and even behind the jackknifed truck. The truck driver typically has little if any control over the out-of-control vehicle. This means that the truck could rear end vehicles ahead of it. The truck could also slide across multiple lanes of traffic given its long trailer, thus damaging vehicles in three lanes in a row.
Jackknifed tractor trailers are also prone to cross centerlines or jump over curbs which can further cause head on impacts and damage. This could result in flip overs and roll overs which means that crushing injuries are likely. Individuals can be seriously injured or wrongfully killed when this happens.
Lastly, jackknife trucking accidents are dangerous because they can block several lanes of traffic. Vehicles following from behind could collide with the jackknifed truck and broadside it. This could be a very serious crash which is like driving into a wall. These injuries could be fatal and are particularly likely to occur at night or in poor visibility.
Common Injuries from Jackknifed Trucking Accidents
There are many possible injuries which could be caused by a jackknifed trucking accident. Victims may be entitled to compensation for these injuries if there is liability imposed against the truck driver or trucking company. Some of the most common injuries from a jackknifed trucking accident include the following:
- Fractures and broken bones;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Crushing injuries;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Ruptured organ injuries;
- Significant disfigurement;
- Nerve injuries including brachial plexus injuries;
- Wrongful death; and
- Many other injuries.
Injured in a New Mexico Jackknifed Trucking Accident? We Might be Able to Help
Jackknifed trucking accidents are likely to result in serious personal injuries and even wrongful death. Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries are common. Here at the Mark Caruso, our experienced Albuquerque trucking accident lawyers fight to protect your rights against some of the largest trucking companies in the United States. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in any trucking accident, please call to schedule your FREE appointment with our lawyers at the Mark Caruso by dialing (505) 308-1556.
We handle causes throughout New Mexico, including Las Cruces, Santa Fe, Roswell, Cuervo, Rio Rancho, Clovis, Farmington, Hobbs, Albuquerque where our office is located, and anywhere else throughout New Mexico. Please call to schedule for FREE appointment by dialing (505) 308-1556 or contact us through our website’s easy to use and convenient contact box available here.
