What is a jack-knife tractor-trailer accident? Can these deadly accidents be prevented on Ohio highways?

I just posted an article about an Ohio semi-truck accident where the 18-wheeler jack-knifed across highway I-70. What is a jack-knife truck accident? What causes these deadly crashes?

A jack-knife refers to the type of tractor-trailer accident that occurs when a big rig skids and the trailer swings out to form a 90 degree angle with the tractor. These types of accidents are especially deadly because the tractor-trailer can block an entire roadway and cause a multi-vehicle pile-up with many casualties. If cargo is spilled, it creates an additional hazard.

Jack-knife trucking accidents are most often caused when the truck goes into a skid and the driver slams on the brake. Improperly adjusted brakes and brake failure are also a common cause of these types of accidents, and they are actually one of the leading causes of all large truck accidents. Other causes of jackknife accident include:

• Driving too fast

• Entering a curve at high speed

• Down shifting

• Accelerating on a slippery surface

• Improper loading

• Engine retarders

Jack-knife accidents are most likely to occur if a truck is empty or only partially loaded. Truck brakes are designed to work with fully-loaded trailers and don’t take into account the way trucks move when they are empty or when the load shifts. Improvements in brake positioning and anti-lock systems can reduce the number of jack-knife accidents.

Trucking accidents account for one-eighth of highway deaths.

If you have been injured or someone you love has died in a jack-knife accident on an Ohio highway, contact the Cleveland trucking accident attorneys at Chester Law Group. We have the skills to investigate the accident and get you the full compensation that you deserve for your injuries and losses. The initial consultation is always free.

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