Jackknife Truck Accidents in Milton

Jackknife crashes occur when a trucker loses control of their truck, and the trailer swings out and towards the cab, forming a 90-degree angle. The vehicle takes over several lanes of traffic and can result in severe harm when other cars are involved.

These wrecks usually happen during poor weather, commonly involving slippery roads and driver error, such as sudden braking or taking turns too fast. 

Speak to a hardworking lawyer who handles cases resulting from jackknife truck accidents in Milton today. Our seasoned tractor-trailer crash attorneys could review your incident and determine whether you have a case.

Height and Weight Limitations

State laws limit the maximum weight of large commercial trucks. While they offer permits for heavier loads, the trucker must apply before traveling through the state. 

According to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the maximum height for commercial cargo trucks is 13 feet and six inches. Similarly, the maximum weight for heavy commercial vehicles depends on the number of axles, including 20,000 pounds for single axles, 34,000 pounds for tandem axles, and 48,000 for tridem axles and a group of three axles less than two meters apart. Failure to follow the state guidelines can result in fines and vehicle impoundment.

Weight and Height Limits for Specific Roadways

The state further limits the size of commercial trucks depending on specific roads, highways, and other road infrastructures. Because of this, truckers must plan their trips in or around the state accordingly.

Drivers may request overweight truck permits, which allow them to exceed the standard limits. To do so, they must contact MassDOT with their requests, and the agency issues permits on a case-by-case basis.

The Common Causes of Jackknife Crashes

The cause of a jackknife collision can be a combination of external factors and driver negligence, such as the following:

• Slippery roadways from poor weather, such as rain, snow, or ice 
• Traveling too fast around turns, curvy roads, or during inclement weather 
• Brake system issues, such as mechanical issues or poorly maintained vehicles
• Sudden and abrupt maneuvers, such as changing lanes or stopping to avoid something in the roadway
• Lack of adequate training, leading to truck driver errors
• Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo that creates weight distribution problems

Truckers can prevent severe crashes by remaining alert and practicing safe driving techniques. A Milton attorney experienced with cases resulting from jackknife truck crashes could investigate and collect the essential evidence needed to establish fault.

Compensation for Jackknife Collisions

Jackknife crashes can leave those involved with catastrophic injuries and other financial and non-monetary losses. Some examples of compensation available for plaintiffs in a personal injury lawsuit include the following:

• Medical expenses, including the ambulance, emergency room, hospital stays, and ongoing healthcare services
• Lost pay, earning potential, and benefits
• Emotional trauma, distress, and anguish 
• Pain and suffering 
• Loss of the enjoyment of life 
• Permanent scarring, disfigurement, and disability 

The civil court calculates the award for damages based on the case specifics, such as the defendant’s actions and the severity of the plaintiff’s injuries. Call a Milton lawyer for more information on potential compensation after a jackknife truck crash.

Speak to a Milton Attorney About Jackknife Truck Accidents Today

Tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles travel through the state morning, afternoon, and night. While they are essential in transporting goods throughout the country, collisions involving passenger cars can have catastrophic consequences. 

You could be eligible to collect a settlement for your losses if you were in a crash caused by negligence. For more information, schedule a consultation with a compassionate lawyer who is experienced with jackknife truck accidents in Milton.