Jackknife Truck Accidents in Texas

A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings outward and folds against the cab, forming a shape similar to a folding pocket knife. These accidents are extremely dangerous because the truck often crosses multiple lanes of traffic, striking other vehicles.

Free Case Review: (469) 947-7584 Calculate Your Settlement

Average Settlement Range for Jackknife Truck Accidents

$100,000 - $1,500,000

*Actual settlements vary based on injury severity and case specifics

What is a Jackknife Truck Accident?

Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents

✓Sudden braking on slippery roads

✓Improper weight distribution or overloaded cargo

✓Taking curves too fast

✓Brake system failures

✓Inexperienced or fatigued drivers

✓Poor road conditions

Injuries from Jackknife Truck Accidents

Jackknife Truck Accidents often result in serious injuries due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Common injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries

Spinal cord injuries

Multiple bone fractures

Crush injuries

Internal organ damage

Wrongful death

Who is Liable in a Jackknife Truck Accident?

Multiple parties may be held responsible for a jackknife truck accident. An experienced attorney can investigate and identify all liable parties:

1Driver error or negligence

2Improper cargo loading by shipping company

3Brake maintenance failures by trucking company

4Manufacturer defects in braking systems

Injured in a Jackknife Truck Accident?

Get your free case review. No fees unless you win.

By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when a truck jackknifes?▼

A jackknife occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out at a sharp angle (usually 90 degrees) from the cab. The name comes from the resemblance to a folding pocket knife. This typically happens when the drive wheels lock up while the trailer continues moving forward.

Who is liable in a jackknife truck accident?▼

Liability can fall on the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loading company, or even brake manufacturers depending on the cause. If the driver braked improperly, they may be liable. If faulty brakes caused it, the trucking company or manufacturer could be responsible.

What is the average settlement for a jackknife accident?▼

Jackknife accident settlements in Texas typically range from $100,000 to over $1 million, depending on injury severity. Catastrophic injuries or wrongful death cases can exceed these amounts significantly.