Due to their massive size and weight when fully loaded with cargo, truck crashes can be some of the most catastrophic incidents occurring on Florida roads. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety reports that more than 4,100 people are killed in truck accidents every year, and 68 percent of these victims were occupants of the passenger vehicle. Many other victims suffer serious, catastrophic injuries in truck collisions of all types. However, one of the most tragic scenarios is a jackknife truck accident, in which the tractor-trailer configuration forms a V and devastates everything in its path.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a jackknife truck collision, it is critical to reach out to Payer Law right away. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses, and an jackknife truck accident attorney can explain in more detail. Please contact our office to set up a no-cost case assessment, and review some general information about your rights.
Extreme Dangers of Jackknife Truck Crashes
This type of collision gets its name from how a jackknife looks when opened, since the trailer of the truck goes in one direction while the tractor portion goes the other. The semi may continue to travel in this V position, creating a serious risk of harm to anyone on the roadway. Plus, an 18-wheeler may overturn, lose cargo, detach from the trailer, or careen into other lanes of traffic. As a result, victims may suffer severe, sometimes fatal injuries, such as:
- Trauma to the head, including concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI);
- Spinal cord injuries, such as herniated and bulging discs;
- Broken bones and injuries to upper and lower extremities;
- Injuries to internal organs;
- Amputation; and
- Strains, sprains, and dislocation.
Legal Help with the Truck Accident Claims Process
Though there are many specific factors that can lead to a jackknife crash, the underlying reason these collisions happen is truck driver negligence. The concept refers to the legal duty of every motorist to exercise reasonable care behind the wheel, and liability results from a breach of this duty. When you have sufficient evidence of negligence, you may qualify to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Our Orlando jackknife truck accident lawyers at Payer Law will handle the legal process, enabling you to heal from your injuries. Our tasks to support your rights include:
- Conducting an investigation and gathering evidence;
- Preparing claims forms and supporting documentation;
- Negotiating settlement with the insurer;
- Preparing paperwork to initiate litigation in court if the insurance company will not settle for fair compensation; and
- Representing you throughout the trial process.
Count on an Orlando Jackknife Truck Accident Attorney for Legal Assistance
At Payer Law, our team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of victims who suffer massive losses after a truck collision. Please contact our Orlando, FL office today to learn how we can help get the compensation you deserve. You can call 407-307-2979 or go online to schedule a free consultation with an Orlando jackknife truck accident lawyer.
