Because the trailer part of a tractor-trailer truck does not have its own engine, its momentum is separate from the cab’s. Unfortunately, this means if a tractor-trailer driver loses control of their vehicle and goes into a skid at high speed, the trailer they are pulling may kick out to the side or the front of the cab, forming a jackknife shape and covering multiple traffic lanes.
This type of wreck can be extremely dangerous to other drivers and their passengers, and any trucker whose misconduct causes this type of crash can be held responsible for the consequences of their actions. However, many people who try to sue over jackknife truck accidents in Gilbert without seasoned truck accident lawyers’ support discover it can be impossible to get the amount of money they deserve for their damages. If you were hurt in this type of collision, speak with an experienced attorney about getting the compensation you need.
Who Is Legally Responsible for a Jackknife Wreck?
While speeding is the most common way truck drivers get into jackknife crashes around Gilbert, other forms of recklessness or carelessness can also potentially lead to this type of incident. Improper braking technique and driving while drunk or distracted can be traced to the trucker directly involved in the wreck. An individual who was not directly involved in an accident can be held responsible for it—for instance, a mechanic who failed to identify and replace faulty brakes before a truck went on a delivery route.
Trucking companies can often be held responsible—lawyers call this “vicariously liable”—if one of their employees’ recklessness or carelessness leads to a preventable crash. This can significantly increase the potential value of an ensuing lawsuit or settlement demand. A knowledgeable attorney’s guidance can be key to identifying everyone who played a role in causing an accident and taking proactive legal action against them.
Getting Paid Fairly Within Filing Deadlines
Assistance from legal counsel can be vital in naming, accurately valuing, and efficiently recovering compensation for every form of harm a victim of a jackknife truck collision in Gilbert will experience. This can include:
- Medical bills and car repair or replacement costs not already covered by insurance
- Out-of-pocket expenses for personal property damage and disability care
- Lost working ability and work income
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish and trauma
- Decline in overall enjoyment of life
However, even when this type of wreck has permanent and debilitating consequences, Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-542 generally gives the victim no more than two years after their injury first occurs to file a lawsuit, making it crucial for them to get professional legal help as soon as possible.
Contact a Gilbert Attorney Today After a Jackknife Truck Crash
No matter why jackknife truck accidents in Gilbert occur, they tend to cause catastrophic injuries to everyone unlucky enough to be involved in them. Even worse, civil claims arising from these wrecks can be deceptively complex and challenging to effectively pursue—unless you have help from a knowledgeable legal professional who is not afraid to litigate on your behalf.
You deserve fair financial restitution for the harm you have unfairly sustained, and the team at Phillips Law Group can work tirelessly to ensure you get paid what you need. Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your legal options.
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