Understanding Jackknife Accidents 🛑 What is a Jackknife Accident? A jackknife accident occurs when a truck's trailer swings outward, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. This typically happens due to sudden braking, poor road conditions, or driver error. ⚠️ Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents - Sudden Braking – Hard braking can cause the trailer to swing. - Slippery Roads – Wet, snowy, or icy roads increase the risk. - Speeding – Excessive speed makes controlling the truck harder. - Poor Maintenance – Faulty brakes or worn-out tires contribute to accidents. - Driver Fatigue – Tired drivers react slower, increasing the risk of jackknifing. Who is Liable in a Jackknife Truck Accident? 🔎 Determining Fault in Illinois Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule. If you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Common parties held liable in a jackknife accident include: - Truck Driver – If reckless driving ...
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