Most drivers in the Gulfport area have witnessed a semi-truck that has jackknifed. Jackknifed semi-trucks are some of the most common causes of a major accident. A truck accident is often serious due to the nature of a semi-truck being so much larger than a passenger car. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, over 4,100 people died in 2018 due to a large truck crash. Some of these crashes were the result of a jackknifed semi. So, what can cause a semi to jackknife?
Excessive speed
Many jackknife tractor trailer accident are caused by the truck going too fast. A semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds which makes stopping take much longer than the average car. Most trucks require up to 40% more time to stop than a car. If a truck driver stops too quickly it can lead to the trailer sliding sideways.
Truck driver fatigue
There are many cases where a truck driver has been on the road too long without adequate rest. When a driver is tired their response time is longer and they may be unable to maneuver themselves out of a dangerous situation.
Inexperienced driver
It is important that truck drivers are well trained. It is not an easy job and there are many hazards that they will encounter on the roads. If an inexperienced driver is on the road it can lead to an accident.
Unbalanced load
Loading a semi-truck is one of the most important tasks. If a load shifts on a driver it can lead to a trailer tipping or tilting. This often causes a rollover accident or a jackknife semi.
Weather conditions
Wet or icy roads can definitely cause problems for a semi-truck. A slick road can be a disaster for a tractor trailer, especially if they have a full load or an inexperienced driver.
If a Gulfport area resident has been the victim of a truck accident, they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can help get the answers a victim deserves as to what happened and who is at fault.
