What Can Cause a Truck to Jackknife?

Smith & Griffith, LLP Team — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT

When observing large vehicles in motion, one might witness a dangerous phenomenon known as jackknifing. This term refers to when a truck with a trailer in tow skids out. In such incidents, the trailer pushes from behind until it forms an acute angle resembling a folding pocketknife. Several factors can lead to this hazardous situation. Everyone operating a metal behemoth needs to understand what factors cause these frightening scenarios. Slippery conditions Slick roads are one of the most common culprits behind jackknifing. Whether the cause is rain, snow or ice, reduced traction can make a truck’s tires lose their grip on the pavement. When a driver brakes suddenly under these conditions, the wheels may lock up, triggering a skid that might result in the trailer swinging uncontrollably. Improper braking Drivers must apply brakes smoothly and gradually, especially in heavy vehicles with large loads. Harshly slamming on the brake pedal can lead to the rear wheels locking up, especially if the truck does not have an anti-lock braking system. This imbalance in braking force sometimes ends in jackknifing. Speeding and sudden maneuvers The faster a truck moves down the highway, the harder it becomes to stop or control in an emergency. In combination with sudden maneuvers such as swerving to avoid an obstacle, high speeds might cause the trailer to swing out. Maintaining a safe velocity and employing gradual, controlled movements help prevent these incidents. Load distribution Finally, there is the matter of a truck’s load distribution. Uneven contents or a shifting load can alter the truck’s balance, making it more prone to losing control. Properly securing and balancing cargo is a requirement for all trucking professionals. Jackknifing is a terrifying event that can end in severe injuries or even death. Conscientious driving practices go a long way toward protecting every rig’s operator, not to mention others on the road.The post What can cause a truck to jackknife? first appeared on Smith & Griffith, LLP .

How Can Burn Injuries Happen During a Truck Accident?

Smith & Griffith, LLP Team — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT

Truck accidents can be intimidating and cause serious injuries that stick around for a long time. One issue that may occur in these accidents is burn injuries. Since fast speeds and commercial trucks are in the mix, it is important to understand how these burns happen in the first place. Cargo and hazardous materials Trucks often carry different kinds of cargo, and some of them can catch fire easily. If there is a crash, anything in the truck can spill out and make the fire risk worse. Things like chemicals and fuels can catch fire and make burn injuries worse, making it harder for emergency workers and doctors to handle. Vehicle design and safety measures The design of trucks and safety features play an important role in preventing or lessening burn injuries. Older trucks might not have the latest gear, making them more likely to have problems like fuel tank breaks. Newer trucks have better safety features, like stronger fuel tanks, to try and stop spills and fires after a crash. Emergency response challenges Truck accidents make it tough for people who come to help in emergencies. These trucks are big and heavy, so putting out fires and saving people can take a long time. 86% of burns come from thermal causes, and in addition, if the response takes too long, the flames and burn injuries can get more intense. The confusion and fear that occur directly after a commercial truck crash can linger in people’s minds, especially if they face fires at the same time. Knowing why burn injuries happen in truck accidents helps everyone be safer on the road.The post How can burn injuries happen during a truck accident? first appeared on Smith & Griffith, LLP .

Truck Accidents - Smith & Griffith

What Can Cause a Truck to Jackknife?

How Can Burn Injuries Happen During a Truck Accident?