Jackknife accidents can be among the most dangerous collisions. They frequently involve multi-vehicle pileups, severe injuries, and devastating property damage.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife accident in St. Louis, Missouri, it is important to understand your options for recovering potential compensation. A St. Louis jackknife accident lawyer from Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Contact us at (314) 444-4444 to schedule a free consultation today.
How Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Jackknife Accident in St. Louis, MO
Whether you are facing physical injuries, lost wages, or other challenges after a jackknife accident, our St. Louis truck accident attorneys can help. Our St. Louis personal injury lawyers bring over 100 years of combined experience to every case. We have recovered over $100 million in compensation for the injured, including drivers, passengers, and pedestrians involved in jackknife accidents.
We have been recognized as National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers and members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for securing million- and multi-million-dollar settlements and trial verdicts.
We can handle all aspects of your jackknife accident case, including:
- Investigating the cause of your accident
- Gathering accident reports, medical records, and other evidence
- Identifying potentially liable parties and proving negligence
- Calculating your economic and non-economic damages
- Retaining expert witnesses
- Filing truck accident insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits
- Negotiating settlements for maximum compensation
Contact Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers today if you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife accident in St. Louis.
What Are Jackknife Accidents?
A jackknife accident occurs when a truck trailer swings outward and forms an acute angle with the cab, similar to a folding pocketknife. This can cause the trailer to sweep across multiple lanes of traffic and strike nearby vehicles.
Because of their size and momentum, jackknifing trucks can cause devastating damage. These accidents can lead to chain-reaction collisions and highway shutdowns, especially on busy interstates like I-70 or I-55.
What Causes Jackknife Accidents in St. Louis, Missouri?
A St. Louis truck crash lawyer can investigate the cause of your jackknife truck accident.
Each accident is unique, but common causes of jackknifing include:
- Sudden braking: When a truck driver slams on the brakes too quickly, a trailer can shift its weight and skid sideways.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to maneuver or stop the truck safely, increasing the risk of a trailer swinging out of control.
- Weather conditions: Rain, ice, and snow can cause the truck’s tires to lose traction, making it easier for a trailer to jackknife.
- Improper loading: Uneven or overloaded trailers can destabilize a truck, especially during turns or sudden stops.
- Mechanical failure: Faulty brakes or worn tires can significantly reduce a truck’s stability and stopping ability.
Truck accident attorneys work with investigators and accident reconstruction specialists to determine what caused your jackknife accident and who is to blame.
Who May Be Liable for a Jackknife Accident in St. Louis?
Determining liability for a jackknife truck accident in St. Louis is not always as simple as it may seem.
Multiple parties may be legally responsible, including:
- The truck driver, if they were speeding, distracted, fatigued, or otherwise negligent
- The trucking company, if it failed to properly train the driver, maintain the truck, or ensure compliance with federal safety regulations
- A maintenance provider, if improper service or overlooked defects contributed to your accident
- A cargo loader, if the trailer was improperly loaded or unbalanced
- A manufacturer, if a defect in the truck’s braking or steering system played a role
An experienced St. Louis truck accident attorney will carefully investigate all parties involved in your accident so that every potential source of compensation is explored.
What Compensation May I Recover After a Jackknife Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
A St. Louis truck accident lawyer will evaluate all potential forms of compensation that may be available.
You may be entitled to recover a wide range of damages if you were injured in a jackknife crash, including economic and non-economic damages for:
- Medical expenses for ongoing and future treatment or rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if your injuries impact your ability to work
- Property damage expenses to repair or replace your car and other damaged property
- Out-of-pocket expenses for transportation to medical appointments related to your accident
- Pain and suffering from accident-related injuries and limitations
- Emotional distress from trauma from your crash
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to your inability to participate in everyday activities
A St. Louis personal injury attorney will work with medical professionals and other experts to accurately calculate the full extent of your damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Jackknife Accident in Missouri?
The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Missouri, including truck accidents, is typically five years from the date of your accident. The deadline might vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case, but your St. Louis jackknife accident attorney can help you determine the deadline for filing your claim.
You may lose your right to pursue compensation if you fail to file your lawsuit within the appropriate timeframe. Acting quickly is crucial to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Contact Our St. Louis Jackknife Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Truck accidents can leave victims with serious injuries, overwhelming expenses, and countless questions.
If you were hurt in a jackknife accident in St. Louis, our St. Louis jackknife accident lawyers at Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers are ready to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
