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All drivers should take caution when traveling near large trucks. Due to the size and weight of these vehicles, any type of accident could have severe consequences. Jackknife truck accidents in Bluffton occur when the trailer of a large commercial vehicle swings, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab.
If you or a loved one were injured in this type of wreck, speak with a tractor-trailer accident attorney right away. At Schiller & Hamilton, our dedicated team could help you and your family fight for compensation.
Common Jackknife Accident Injuries
Any large vehicle accident can have serious implications, but when an 18-wheeler jackknifes, everyone on the road may be in danger. As the trailer of a truck swings across the road, it can come in contact with multiple vehicles and objects, causing a large-scale accident. In addition to vehicular damage, drivers and their passengers may suffer severe, life-threatening injuries such as:
- Lacerations
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries and bleeding
- Head trauma
- Back injuries
- Paralysis
Anyone suffering these types of injures should seek immediate medical care before reaching out to a jackknife truck wreck attorney.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Jackknifing incidents are often the result of driver error, however, there are many other potential causes. Circumstances that could lead to a wreck may include:
- Speeding
- Fatigue
- Inadequate training
- Overweight cargo
- Intoxication by drugs or alcohol
- Road hazards
- Defective parts
- Poor vehicle maintenance
An experienced accident lawyer could review the relevant evidence pertaining to a jackknife case to determine who is responsible.
Establishing Liability After a Folded Tractor-Trailer Wreck
While the trucker may be the primarily liable party in an accident, they may not be the only one at fault. Any individual or entity that contributed to the incident could bear liability. Potential defendants in a case might include the trucking company, vehicle manufacture, or parts suppliers.
If the accident was caused by poor road conditions, the government entity responsible for maintaining that street could also be responsible. When a case involves multiple parties, it can be difficult to obtain adequate compensation. Accident victims should hire an attorney familiar with jackknife truck cases to protect their rights, negotiate with insurance companies, or prepare for trial.
Collecting Economic and Non-Economic Damages in Bluffton
Accident victims are permitted to seek compensation for both economic and noneconomic losses. Economic damages cover measurable expenses such as medical bills, lost earnings, and vehicle damage. Non-economic damages account for pain and suffering, mental anguish, and inconvenience.
Unfortunately, many jackknife accidents are fatal. In these cases, surviving family members may pursue reimbursement for funeral expenses, future earning potential, and loss of society under South Carolina Code Annotated § 15-51-10.
Partial Fault Could Impact Damages
According to S.C. Code Ann. § 15-1-300, the court could bar a victim from collecting compensation if there is evidence that the victim bears the majority of the responsibility for the accident. Given this risk, injured parties should retain legal counsel who could protect them from the assignment of blame in a jackknife truck accident case.
Get the Representation You Need After a Jackknife Truck Accident in Bluffton
Victims of jackknife truck accidents in Bluffton may have trouble attempting to obtain just compensation on their own. Our team of compassionate attorneys understands the physical and emotional pain you and your family may be experiencing. Contact us today to begin working on your potential case.