Jackknife truck accidents are among the most dangerous crashes on Florida highways. When an 18-wheeler folds in on itself, its trailer can swing across lanes. This can lead to multi-vehicle pileups and serious injuries. These accidents often happen suddenly, leaving little time to react.
If you were injured in a jackknife accident near Lakeland, FL, you need an attorney to help you get any compensation you may be entitled to. The Lakeland 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident lawyers at Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers can help you do that.
Our personal injury lawyers have 119 years of combined experience and have recovered tens of millions for our clients. We have the skills to take on trucking companies and their insurers. Our attorneys fight for fair compensation for victims of severe truck crashes, including jackknife incidents with 18-wheelers and other commercial vehicles. Contact us or call (863) 251-6196 today!
Why Choose Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers for Help After an 18-Wheeler Truck Jackknife Accident in Lakeland, Florida?
Our law firm is known for aggressive, results-driven representation in Florida personal injury cases. We understand the complexities of jackknife accidents, from crash reconstruction to federal trucking violations.
Here’s what makes our Lakeland personal injury attorneys stand out:
- Decades of experience: Our Lakeland truck accident attorneys combine over a century of knowledge for every case.
- Proven results: We’ve recovered millions for clients throughout Florida.
- Truck accident focus: We know FMCSA rules and how to find violations.
- Hands-on approach: We build each case from scratch, using expert witnesses and thorough investigations.
After a serious truck accident, the trucking company and its insurers act quickly to protect themselves. You need a legal team that will act even faster to protect your rights.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife crash occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out at an angle, often forming an L or V shape with the cab. It usually happens when the truck loses control while braking, especially on wet or slick roads.
Jackknife accidents are especially dangerous because the swinging trailer can:
- Crush smaller vehicles in nearby lanes
- Cause secondary collisions with other vehicles or objects
- Block multiple lanes, causing major traffic jams
- Tip over, spilling cargo or hazardous materials
These accidents often lead to severe injuries or fatalities, particularly on highways like I-4 or US-98, where speeds are high.
Common Causes of Truck Jackknife Accidents in Florida
While road conditions and weather can contribute, most jackknife accidents are preventable. Truck driver error, poor vehicle maintenance, and trucking company negligence are often the leading causes.
Factors that cause accidents include:
- Improper braking techniques: Slamming brakes can lock trailer wheels and cause swings.
- Speeding or reckless driving: Driving too fast increases the risk of losing control.
- Overloaded or unbalanced cargo: Shifting weight can destabilize the truck.
- Driver fatigue: Tired drivers may misjudge conditions or react slowly.
- Inadequate maintenance: Worn brakes or faulty equipment raise the risk of accidents.
These facts often relate to company or driver violations of federal safety rules. Trucking companies that cut corners or push drivers to violate safety rules can be held legally accountable.
Injuries Caused by Jackknife Truck Crashes
Jackknife accidents can lead to violent collisions and multiple impacts, resulting in severe or fatal injuries.
Victims may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Crush injuries and broken bones
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Severe burns or lacerations
- Wrongful death
These injuries can cause permanent disability, emotional trauma, and long-term medical treatment. Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers fights for every dollar to cover your losses and help you rebuild your life.
Florida’s Modified Comparative Fault Rule
In Florida, jackknife truck accident victims can still seek compensation even if partly at fault, as long as they are not over 50% responsible. In other words, you cannot recover damages if you are found to be 51% or more at fault. This rule is called modified comparative fault.
Insurance companies often try to use this rule to reduce or deny claims. They might argue that you were speeding or driving distracted to shift the blame. Our Lakeland truck accident lawyers can counter these tactics with strong evidence and expert testimony.
Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims in Florida
In most cases, you have two years in Florida to file a personal injury claim after a truck accident. This applies whether you were in a jackknife crash, a rear-end collision, or another commercial vehicle accident.
If you lost a loved one in a fatal jackknife accident, the deadline to file a wrongful death lawsuit is also two years. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation.
Speaking with a Lakeland personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the crash is crucial. Trucking companies often have legal teams ready to limit their liability.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Truck Jackknife Accident?
A truck accident can leave you with medical debt, lost income, and emotional pain.
A successful legal claim can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, medications)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Wrongful death damages (funeral costs, loss of support, etc.)
Every case is unique. Our team will carefully document your losses, working with experts to ensure nothing is missed.
Contact a Lakeland 18-Wheeler Truck Jackknife Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one was injured in a jackknife crash involving an 18-wheeler in Lakeland, FL, Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. We have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for maximum compensation.
Contact a Lakeland 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident attorney today to discuss your case and take the first step toward recovery.
