Were you injured in a jackknife accident in Lafayette, Louisiana? Kenny Habetz Injury Law is here to help. Working with our experienced Lafayette jackknife accident attorney increases your chances of securing the maximum compensation possible.
Given the size of the truck and the severe nature of these accidents, jackknife incidents can be especially devastating.
Reach out to our Lafayette, LA, law offices at (337) 399-9000 today to arrange a free consultation. Our skilled Lafayette jackknife accident lawyer will review your case and discuss your legal options. With our contingency fee arrangement, you only pay if we win your case.
How Can Kenny Habetz Injury Law Help You After a Jackknife Accident in Lafayette?
While you recover from the crash, you might be worried about your financial situation—how will you manage expenses, medical costs, and vehicle damage?
Our Lafayette truck accident attorney has the experience necessary to build a strong claim and secure the compensation you deserve. You can focus on your recovery without financial stress.
When you engage our Lafayette personal injury lawyer, we promptly take action.
You can rely on Kenny Habetz Injury Law to:
- Conduct a detailed investigation of the accident
- Gather evidence from all available sources, including witness statements
- Work with specialists to strengthen your case
- Negotiate vigorously for the maximum settlement
- Represent you in court if needed
We strongly advise against communicating with the trucking company, their lawyers, or insurance agents. Their goal is to minimize your compensation. Let us handle these interactions so you aren’t taken advantage of during this vulnerable time.
Reach out to our law offices in Lafayette, LA, for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Lafayette jackknife accident lawyer about your case.
What Is a Jackknife Accident?
A jackknife collision happens when a tractor-trailer fails to travel in a straight line, causing the trailer to swing out and align itself into an “L” or “V” shape behind the tractor or cab.
Maintaining traction is crucial for keeping a large truck properly aligned on the road. When traction is lost, the driver loses control. This often occurs when the driver hits the brakes, causing them to lock up and the vehicle to skid. This improper braking causes the trailer to swing out to one side.
Other common causes of jackknife accidents include:
- Lack of sufficient stopping distance
- Tailgating
- Sharp turns
- Adverse weather conditions
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Hauling an empty trailer, which can lower traction
- Poor maintenance of the tractor or trailer
Inexperience or inadequate training of the driver can also be factors in these accidents.
Why Are Jackknife Injuries So Dangerous?
Jackknifing is particularly perilous because it signifies that the driver has lost control of the truck. The trailer can swing either left or right while still connected to the “hitch,” the attachment point at the rear of the truck, effectively leading the movement of the truck.
The trailer acts like an alligator’s tail, sweeping and propelling anything in its path. This sweeping motion can involve cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and even pedestrians. The rapid nature of the event often leaves others unable to avoid being struck.
Given the enormous weight and size of the truck, jackknifing can lead to significant damage, severe injuries, and even fatalities. The swinging trailer can collect vehicles in its path, crushing them between the cab and the trailer or pushing them into opposing traffic lanes.
What Kinds of Injuries Do Jackknife Accidents Cause?
Due to the uncontrolled and chaotic nature of a jackknife accident, those involved can sustain severe injuries, including:
- Crush injuries
- Burns
- Fractures and broken bones
- Whiplash
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Head and neck trauma
- Spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
The truck accident lawyers at Kenny Habetz Injury Law in Lafayette are equipped to help you secure the financial assistance you need for your recovery.
How Long do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Jackknife Accident in Louisiana?
It’s important to note that the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in Louisiana is two years as of 7/1/2024. If your accident occurred prior to that date, you may only have one year to bring a claim. If this deadline is missed, you may lose the opportunity to recover compensation.
Contact Our Lafayette Jackknife Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a jackknife accident in Lafayette, LA, and suffered injuries, reach out to Kenny Habetz Injury Law. Such accidents are alarming and can lead to serious injuries. You shouldn’t have to face this situation alone.
We are committed to treating our clients with the dignity and respect they deserve. You can trust we will handle your case with compassion and understanding.
Contact our Lafayette jackknife accident lawyer today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.