How Our Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyers Help in Fort Worth
We reconstruct how the trailer lost control and who could have prevented it. That means getting the truck’s data and records before they are lost.
When you hire us, we:
- Request the truck’s engine control module data, ELD logs, and dashcam video
- Inspect brake, tire, and maintenance records
- Review how the trailer was loaded and balanced
- Work with crash reconstruction professionals when needed
- Pursue every responsible party, in court if needed
What Causes Jackknife Accidents?
Most jackknifes begin with a driver braking hard or steering suddenly at a speed too fast for conditions. When the tractor slows faster than the trailer, the trailer pushes forward and swings out.
Common causes include:
- Speeding, especially on curves and ramps
- Following too closely, which forces sudden braking (§545.062)
- Wet or icy roads
- Empty or unevenly loaded trailers
- Worn brakes or improperly adjusted brakes
- Tire blowouts
- Driver fatigue or distraction
Who Is Liable for a Jackknife Truck Accident?
The driver and the trucking company are the most common defendants. The company is generally responsible for its driver’s negligence on the job and for keeping the truck safe.
Others may share fault:
- A cargo loader or shipper that unbalanced the trailer
- A maintenance shop that did faulty brake work
- A parts or tire manufacturer, if a defect contributed
- Another motorist whose actions forced the truck to swerve
Our Texas jackknife accident guide explains these claims in more detail.
Injuries and Damages in Jackknife Crashes
A jackknifed trailer can sweep across lanes, cause rollovers, and trigger chain-reaction crashes. Injuries are often severe: spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, broken bones, and fatalities.
You may recover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Families who lost a loved one may have a wrongful death claim. The deadline to file suit in Texas is generally two years from the crash.
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Fort Worth Jackknife Accidents FAQs
What causes a truck to jackknife?
A jackknife usually happens when the truck's drive wheels lock or lose traction and the trailer keeps moving, swinging around toward the cab. Hard braking at speed, wet roads, sharp curves, light or unbalanced loads, and poorly maintained brakes are the most common triggers.
Is the truck driver always at fault for a jackknife?
Not always, but often. Drivers are expected to adjust speed for weather and traffic and keep enough distance to stop. Fault may also fall on the carrier for brake maintenance, the loader for poor cargo balance, or another driver who cut in front of the truck.
Can I recover if several cars crashed into the jackknifed truck?
Yes. In a multi-vehicle crash, Texas comparative fault rules divide responsibility among everyone who contributed. You can recover from each liable party as long as your own share of fault is 50% or less. Untangling those claims is a large part of our work.
How much does a jackknife truck accident lawyer cost?
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers handles jackknife accident cases on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney's fees unless we recover money for you. Our fee will never exceed your recovery, and we explain the exact terms in writing before we start.
Visit Our Fort Worth Office
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
209 N Hampton St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
- Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday Closed