Accident on I-580 Involves Jackknifed Big Rig
A jackknife accident occurred in Richmond on March 17, where injuries were reported. The accident happened along westbound Interstate 580 near Western Drive around 11:00 a.m. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported injuries in the accident. However, they did not provide additional details, such as how many vehicles were involved or whether the accident only involved the big rig. The accident is being investigated to determine what caused the collision.
Accidents Involving Jackknifed Trucks
Many jackknife occur when a trucker fails to slow down correctly. In a jackknife accident, the tractor moves slower than the pulled trailer. This causes the trailer to swing around. A rollover or collision with other vehicles can occur as a result. An attorney can assist the injured person with filing a claim if their injuries were caused by this accident.
Jackknife Accident Investigations
Our law firm has assisted many people in recovering compensation after an accident with a big rig. Evidence collection and thorough investigation are essential to support the injury claim. After a jackknife accident, we dispatch our investigators to the scene to collect evidence on the following:
- In addition to reviewing the police report, witnesses are interviewed.
- The investigators perform accident reconstruction.
- Vehicle maintenance records and trucker logbooks or ELDs are examined.
- Videotapes from traffic surveillance and business cameras are examined by investigators to see if the crash was captured on tape.
- The records of a company-owned truck are checked for lack of maintenance and citations and problems the driver and company have had.
- There is a search for any violations related to the accident, such as distracted driving, speeding, etc.
A Jackknife Accident Happens for Various Reasons
A big rig can jackknife for several reasons, including:
- Drivers with inexperience: Driving a big rig differs from operating a car. Using the right brake on a big rig is essential so that it does not cause a jackknife accident.
- Steep grades: Vehicles travel faster downhill, and an inexperienced or careless driver may brake too late to slow down the big rig, which may cause it to jackknife.
- Speed: An 80,000-pound big rig requires more force and distance to slow or stop. The risk of jackknifing increases 49 percent when a truck driver exceeds the speed limit by just 10 mph, according to a U.S. Department of Transportation study.
- Improper loading: Carrying an unbalanced, too-light, or heavy load can cause a jackknife accident and a rollover. Either of these types of collisions can result in serious injuries or fatalities to those in other vehicles.
- Occupational distractions and fatigue: Many truckers work long hours and get paid by the mile, so it is in their interest to drive as much as is legal. According to experts, truck drivers travel about 3,000 miles on average each week. Spending that much time on the road can lead to monotony, fatigue, and distractions such as texting. Spending so many hours on the road can cause a jackknifed truck accident.
Richmond Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Richmond personal injury lawyer. Accidents involving big rigs can involve serious injuries. If your injuries resulted from a negligent trucker or the company that employs them, you may want to find out whether you can file a claim to recover damages. Call (510) 631-0200 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice from one of our injury lawyers. You can have your questions answered and your case reviewed with no obligation and find out what options are available to recover damages. You can also contact us online if you prefer.
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