A jackknife truck crash can happen in seconds. The tractor and trailer can swing in different directions, creating a serious danger for nearby vehicles. Memphis has busy roads and major trucking routes, so drivers may encounter large commercial trucks every day. But what causes a truck to jackknife?
Common causes of jackknife crashes
A jackknife crash often happens when a trailer loses traction or moves out of line with the tractor. Several factors can lead to this problem:
- Hard braking: Sudden braking can cause the trailer wheels to lock or lose traction. The trailer may then swing toward the tractor.
- High speed: Speed can make it harder for a driver to control a truck when traffic stops or road conditions change.
- Wet roads: Rain and standing water can reduce tire grip and make a truck harder to control.
- Poorly loaded cargo: Uneven or unsecured cargo can change how a trailer handles.
- Equipment problems: Worn tires, faulty brakes or other mechanical problems can affect a truck’s ability to stop safely.
- Driver fatigue or distraction: A tired or distracted driver may react too slowly to a sudden hazard.
These factors can work together. Looking at what happened before the crash can help explain why the truck lost control.
How truck crash causes are investigated
Investigators may inspect the truck, trailer, tires, brakes and cargo. They can also review driver records, inspection records, crash damage and other available evidence.
Federal safety rules apply to many commercial truck operations. These rules address issues such as driver qualifications, vehicle safety and safe operation. Tennessee also regulates commercial motor carriers that operate within the state. These requirements may become important when evidence points to a safety violation.
Tennessee also follows a modified comparative fault system. If an injured person shares some fault, that person’s recovery may be reduced. A person found 50% or more at fault generally cannot recover damages.
Why the cause matters
A jackknife crash may result from driver conduct, road conditions, cargo problems, equipment failures or several factors at once. Identifying those factors can help explain how the crash happened and who may share responsibility.
Understanding the cause of a jackknife crash can give injured people a clearer picture of the events that led to the collision and the issues that may affect a claim.
