Corpus Christi Jackknife Accident Lawyer

Corpus Christi Jackknife Accident Attorney

A jackknife accident is one of the most dangerous and destructive types of truck crashes. These accidents often involve multiple vehicles, cause severe injuries or fatalities, and leave behind extensive property damage. A Corpus Christi jackknife accident lawyer can help you take legal action to recover compensation for the catastrophic harm a jackknife accident can cause.

Why Choose Stevenson & Murray?

With more than 80 years of combined legal experience, the attorneys at Stevenson & Murray have helped countless accident victims pursue justice and compensation. We seek to support your recovery in a jackknife accident case by working relentlessly for fair compensation.

Our firm is committed to supporting your recovery by providing personalized legal guidance, aggressive advocacy, and a thorough understanding of Texas jackknife accident laws. During this challenging time, our experience and dedication can make a meaningful difference in your case.

What Can Cause a Jackknife Accident

A jackknife involves a semi-truck’s trailer swinging outward at an angle, often into other lanes of traffic. This type of accident can cause severe injuries and even death because the trailer moves across a large area with a lot of force. About 5,800 fatal jackknife accidents occur each year.

In Corpus Christi, jackknifing is common on I-37 and SH 286. With the high speed and frequent use by truck drivers, these routes carry a high risk of jackknife accidents. The risk is particularly high in the rain, as rain or mist occurred during 73% of crashes with adverse weather.

Many jackknife accidents are preventable through proper driving, vehicle maintenance, and caution in dangerous conditions. Yet, they still occur. A Corpus Christi jackknife accident lawyer can determine the cause of an accident and hold the at-fault driver or other at-fault party accountable.

Common reasons for jackknifing include:

• Sudden braking
• Wet or slippery road conditions
• High-speed or tight turns
• Overweight cargo
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Mechanical issues
• Speeding
• Driver fatigue or distraction

Compensation After a Jackknife Accident Case

A Corpus Christi jackknife accident attorney can evaluate your losses after an accident and pursue a comprehensive award. Compensation reflects the damage an accident caused to you, varying based on the types and severity of your damages.

Your award may include:

• Medical costs. Medical costs are often some of the most significant expenses after a jackknife accident. Compensation can cover the cost of treatment for your injuries, including hospital stays, emergency medical services, medications, and long-term treatments.
• Lost wages. Many victims are unable to work while recovering from their injuries. Compensation can account for missed paychecks, reduced earning capacity, and future income losses if your injuries result in permanent disability.
• Property damage. A jackknife crash is known for extensive damage to other vehicles. Beyond damage to your car, clothing, personal electronics, and other valuables can be destroyed. Compensation can include the cost of replacing or repairing these items.
• Emotional trauma. The impact of a truck accident extends beyond physical damage. 22.25% of all traffic accident victims report experiencing PTSD, which may be higher for jackknife accident survivors, considering the traumatic nature of these accidents. Extreme stress and psychological disorders can increase compensation.
• Punitive damages. Punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless or dangerous. These damages are intended to punish extreme misconduct and deter similar behavior in the future, potentially increasing your overall compensation significantly.

Why You Should Hire a Jackknife Accident Lawyer

A lawyer is invaluable when filing a claim. They can gather evidence, determine liability, and pursue fair compensation. They can answer your questions about the claims process, helping you feel confident throughout each step. Their unwavering support for your case can lead to a comprehensive award for your damages.

FAQs

Is Jackknifing Always the Driver’s Fault?

No, jackknifing is not always the driver’s fault. Many factors can cause a jackknife accident, beyond driver error. Improperly loaded cargo, mechanical failure, or another driver’s error are all common causes for jackknifing. A lawyer can determine who can be held liable according to jackknife accident laws and the details of your case. This may be the truck driver, but could also be the trucking company, cargo loading company, or vehicle manufacturer.

What Is an Unavoidable Accident in Texas?

An unavoidable accident is an event that wasn’t caused by someone’s negligent or reckless behavior. Instead, an unavoidable accident is caused by an unexpected, sudden emergency that may result in someone causing an accident. If the truck driver is not liable for a jackknife accident, you should hire a jackknife accident lawyer to determine if any party can be held liable or file a claim through your own insurance for the unavoidable accident.

Can You File a Claim if There Were Multiple Victims in a Jackknife Accident Case?

Yes, you can file a claim if there were multiple victims in a jackknife accident case. Additionally, you do not have to file jointly with the other victims. When there are multiple victims, the truck driver’s insurance coverage is divided between the victims’ claims. This may result in an award that does not fully cover your damages. A lawyer can negotiate for greater compensation and can file a claim against another liable party to meet your needs.

What Types of Evidence Do You Need to File a Jackknife Accident Claim?

To file a jackknife accident claim, you need sufficient evidence to prove who the at-fault party is and what damages the accident caused. A lawyer can collect necessary evidence from the accident and throughout your recovery to include in the claim. Evidence may include police reports, photographs from the scene of the accident, witness testimonies, dashcam or security camera footage, medical records, photographs of your physical injuries, and pay stubs.

Learn How a Corpus Christi Jackknife Accident Attorney Can Help

Jackknifing is one of the most devastating truck accidents you can experience. Unexpectedly left with severe injuries, heavy expenses, and emotional distress, it is easy to feel hopeless. Stevenson & Murray are committed to guiding you through every stage of the claims process, from initial investigation through recovery.

Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how experienced legal representation can help you recover from a traumatic jackknife accident.