Jackknife truck crashes are often severe and can have catastrophic consequences for other involved motorists. When collisions happen because of the negligence of a trucker, you have the right to take action to recover your losses. Truck companies have lawyers and insurance companies ready to fight for them and minimize liability.
Having someone in your corner to fight for you is essential. A hard-working attorney experienced with jackknife truck accidents in Clermont could investigate your case, answer questions about the process, and review your options.
What Is a Jackknifing Truck Crash?
Jackknifing is a serious type of truck accident involving the vehicle’s trailer swinging towards the cab. These collisions often occur when something causes the trucker to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting something.
Cars in the area may sustain catastrophic damages when the trailer swings to the side, forming a 90-degree angle. Jackknifing crashes can leave other motorists with severe bodily harm and property damage.
Common Causes
Some of the reasons these severe crashes happen include the following:
- Speeding or following other cars too closely
- Traveling at high speeds when inclement weather is causing hazardous road conditions
- Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo
- Tire blowouts caused by defective parts or inadequate maintenance
- Vehicle mechanical failure
- Distracted truck operators
- Traveling too fast around turns or curves
- Reckless actions of another third-party driver
An attorney could help gather the essential evidence needed to establish fault for a jackknife crash in Clermont.
No-Fault Insurance System
State traffic laws follow a no-fault auto insurance system, meaning when the damages are minor, the motorist’s personal insurance policies will cover their damages. According to the guidance of Florida Statutes § 627.7407, a driver’s auto insurance policy must cover up to $10,000 in damages.
When serious injuries occur, the injured party has the legal right to take the liable party to court. Severe injuries include injuries leading to permanent disabilities, permanent scarring and disfigurement, and wrongful death. The injured person in Clermont must file the lawsuit within four years from the date of the jackknife truck accident to secure compensation. A knowledgeable lawyer could review the applicable statutes and answer questions.
Determining Liability
Determining liability after a truck crash is crucial for collecting a settlement from the at-fault party. That requires a thorough investigation and evidence review, including accident reconstruction and speaking with witnesses to the crash. The potentially liable parties include:
- The truck operator
- The trucking company
- The business handling the loading of the cargo
- The fleet company handling the maintenance of the vehicles
- A third-party driver
In some cases, more than one defendant is listed on the lawsuit, depending on the case specifics. An example is naming the trucker for careless truck operation and the company employing them for inadequate training before allowing them behind the wheel.
Speak to an Attorney Skilled With Clermont Jackknife Truck Accidents
Accidents involving massive semi-trucks are terrifying and traumatic and can leave you with severe and lasting bodily injuries. When someone’s carelessness causes others to sustain damages, the civil court can hold them financially responsible.
You have the right to pursue damages if you were in a severe crash because of a negligent truck driver. A compassionate lawyer skilled in handling claims involving jackknife truck accidents in Clermont could help you throughout the process and fight for a fair settlement amount. Reach out to our firm to learn more about your possible compensation.
