Any type of car accident in Illinois can be dangerous, but those involving large trucks are more likely to result in serious or fatal consequences. One cause of trucking accidents is jackknifing, something that often results in a forceful crash. If you or a loved one were injured or killed in an accident caused by a truck that jackknifed, we at the Law Office of Kerley and Associates can ensure that you get the help and compensation you deserve.
According to TheTruckersPlace.com, there are several different factors that can cause a truck to jackknife. The physical, environmental factors of the area you are in may be one of the biggest culprits. Strong winds can cause a truck’s trailers to begin swaying and be pushed off-balance. Ice on the road can also cause wheels to slide, especially if it is on a curve.
Other factors contributing to jackknifing are due to errors made in the preparation and maintenance of the truck. If the loads were not balanced properly or unsecured and allowed to shift during travel, the uneven distribution can cause the truck to jackknife. Other factors, such as weak tires or unbalanced air brake timing, can also result in an accident.
The actions of the driver can also cause the truck to crash. Improper hand valve usage or downshifting when the road is slick can be the culprit, as can taking a turn too sharp, reacting too slowly, or over-braking or -accelerating. For more information on this topic, please visit our web page.