Jackknife accidents involving commercial trucks can lead to devastating injuries and significant property damage. If you’ve been injured in a jackknife accident in Miami, Florida, it’s essential to understand your legal rights. Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys is here to guide you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Miami jackknife accident lawyer at (305) 916-6455.
How Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help You After a Jackknife Accident in Miami, FL
At Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys, our team of experienced Miami personal injury attorneys is committed to helping victims of jackknife accidents.
Here’s how our Miami truck accident lawyers can assist you
- Investigation of the accident: We thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as truck logs, witness statements, and accident reports. We work with experts to determine the cause of the accident and who is responsible for your injuries.
- Determining liability and fault: Jackknife accidents often involve multiple factors, such as driver error, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions. We will analyze all evidence to identify all liable parties, including the driver, trucking company, and vehicle manufacturer.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
- Litigating on your behalf: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys will take your case to court. We have extensive experience in litigation and will fight aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
With us by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
What Is a Jackknife Accident?
A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out to the side of the vehicle, forming a “V” shape with the truck cab. This often happens when the driver brakes suddenly or if the road conditions make it difficult for the driver to maintain control. In Miami, jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous due to high traffic volumes and complex road conditions.
These accidents can result in severe damage and injuries, as the large size and weight of commercial trucks can cause significant harm to other vehicles on the road.
What Are the Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents in Miami?
Several factors can lead to jackknife accidents in Miami, including:
Speeding or Aggressive Driving
Excessive speed, especially when road conditions are slippery, is one of the most common causes of jackknife accidents. Truck drivers who drive too fast often cannot react in time to avoid hazards.
Inexperienced or Fatigued Drivers
Truck drivers who are not adequately trained or who are fatigued from long hours of driving are more likely to make mistakes, such as applying brakes too quickly or failing to anticipate road conditions.
Poor Weather Conditions
Rain, fog, or icy roads reduce the traction of a truck’s tires. If a driver doesn’t adjust their speed, this can cause the trailer to lose control and jackknife.
Improper Loading of Cargo
Overloading or improperly securing cargo can affect a truck’s stability and cause an imbalance that leads to a jackknife accident.
Mechanical Failures
Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or other mechanical issues can cause the truck to become unstable, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Miami’s heavy traffic and frequent inclement weather only increase the risk of jackknife accidents on local highways and interstates.
What Injuries Are Common in Jackknife Accidents?
Jackknife accidents often result in serious injuries.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are common in high-impact crashes, leading to long-term cognitive or physical disabilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a collision can cause severe damage to the spine, potentially leading to paralysis.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a jackknife accident can cause fractures in arms, legs, ribs, and other bones.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and damage to organs, such as the liver, kidneys, or spleen, are also common.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jerking motion of the accident can cause whiplash or neck injuries that lead to chronic pain.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruises are frequently seen in jackknife accident victims.
Injuries sustained in jackknife accidents can be debilitating and may require long-term treatment and rehabilitation. The severity of your injuries will affect the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Jackknife Accident Claim in Florida?
Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you are injured, you must file your lawsuit within two years to preserve your right to seek compensation. If you fail to file within this period, you may lose your right to claim damages.
It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the statute of limitations.
What if I Am Partially at Fault for the Jackknife Accident?
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation if you are partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.
If you are more than 50% to blame, you are barred from recovering compensation entirely.
Contact Our Miami Jackknife Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a jackknife accident in Miami, Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys is here to help. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.
Don’t wait—contact us today to schedule your consultation with a Miami jackknife accident attorney. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the justice you deserve.
