Commercial trucks are among the most dangerous vehicles on California’s highways. Their massive size and heavy cargo create tremendous momentum, meaning that when a crash occurs, the damage is often catastrophic. One of the most severe types of truck accidents is a jackknife accident, which can lead to life-threatening injuries and devastating property damage.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife truck accident, Hillstone Law is here to help. Our experienced San Jose big rig accident attorneys fight aggressively to hold negligent trucking companies and drivers accountable so you can recover the compensation you deserve.

What Is a Jackknife Accident?

A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out from behind the cab at an angle, resembling a folding pocketknife. This typically happens when the driver loses control of the vehicle, causing the cab and trailer to travel on separate, dangerous paths.

Jackknife accidents are especially dangerous because:

• The truck’s weight creates immense force upon impact.
• The cab and trailer may strike multiple vehicles as they swing apart.
• The collision can push the truck into oncoming traffic.
• Fires or cargo spills may occur, further endangering others.

Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents

Several factors can cause a truck to jackknife. The most frequent include:

1. Speeding

Truck drivers paid by the mile may be tempted to drive faster to maximize pay. But speeding greatly increases stopping distance and makes it harder to control the truck — especially when fully loaded.

2. Fatigued Driving

Despite federal rules limiting hours on the road, some truckers still drive while dangerously fatigued. Exhausted drivers have slower reaction times, making it easier to lose control.

3. Hazardous Weather

Rain, ice, or even strong winds can make big rigs harder to control. Slippery roads significantly increase the risk of a jackknife crash.

4. Sloshing Cargo

Tanker trucks carrying liquids are especially prone to jackknifing. Moving cargo can shift the truck’s center of gravity and throw it off balance if the driver isn’t careful.

5. Inexperienced Drivers

Driving a fully loaded commercial truck requires specialized training. When trucking companies fail to properly train their drivers, they put everyone on the road in danger.

6. Equipment Malfunctions

Brake failures, defective tires, or poorly maintained parts can all lead to a driver losing control. In these cases, the trucking company or manufacturer may share liability.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

In a jackknife accident, multiple parties may be responsible for your injuries, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision)
• Maintenance contractors who failed to properly service the vehicle
• Manufacturers of defective truck parts or equipment

Our attorneys at Hillstone Law thoroughly investigate every case to identify all responsible parties and pursue maximum compensation.

Get Legal Help After a Jackknife Accident

A jackknife truck accident can leave victims with catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or lifelong disabilities. The trucking company’s insurance team will move quickly to limit their payout — which is why you need a skilled advocate on your side.

At Hillstone Law, we will:

• Investigate the cause of the accident and gather evidence.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts and medical specialists.
• Fight for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.