Types of Trucking Accidents

At Davis & McCabe, our attorneys are thoroughly experienced in handling every type of trucking accident claim. We have accident reconstruction experts that can accurately assess exactly what happened in your accident, identify and analyze the tractor-trailer driver's violations, and obtain the full compensation you deserve.

Some of the most common types of accidents specific to trucks are:

  • Jack Knife (or Jackknife or Jack-knife). A large 18-wheel semi truck can end up in a "jack knife" position when the tractor's drive axle brakes lock up, and the trailer skids, stopping only after it forms an angle of 90 degrees with the tractor. During a jack knife, the driver has no control over the truck, and many times the truck can roll-over. Anyone in the path of a jack knifing truck is in mortal danger.
  • Rollover (or Roll Over). Although many rollovers are the result of speeding, semi trucks can roll over at speeds as low as 5 mph, especially on steep inclines or declines, or where the wheels "trip" on a curb or other object. An 18-wheeler can roll over when taking a curve too fast or when semi-truck drivers try to return to the road after putting a tire off the pavement. After the truck has begun to roll, there is no control over how long it will roll, or where it will end up.
  • Tire Blowout. Like other motor vehicles, a tractor-trailer truck can have a tire blowout, but, unlike other motor vehicles, the consequences of a tire blowout on a semi truck can be far worse. We can all imagine the difficulty of trying to control a car with a blown out tire. Now try to imagine handling a semi truck, which weighs tens of thousands of pounds more than a car, with a blown-out tire and possibly a full load of cargo. The results are disastrous for any victims caught in the way.
  • Underrides. Underrides occur when a truck stops suddenly, and a smaller vehicle behind the truck continues forward and goes underneath the rear trailer. The passenger portion of the car crashes into the rear of the trailer. If the smaller vehicle is going fast enough, it is likely that the entire cab of the car can be destroyed.

    • There is no doubt that 18-wheel tractor-trailers experience unique types of accidents with unique consequences. No matter how your accident occurred, you and your loved ones deserve caring and comprehensive representation.

    Regardless of where you live in the US, if you have been the victim of an accident involving a tractor-trailer or big rig, contact Davis & McCabe today to set up a FREE initial consultation.

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