18-Wheeler Truck Jackknife Accidents in St. Petersburg

Have you or someone you love been injured in an 18-wheeler jackknife accident in St. Petersburg, Florida? If so, it’s essential to have the right legal representation on your side. At Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group, our experienced St. Petersburg 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident attorneys are here to help. Our lawyers can help you secure the compensation you deserve. 

We have the experience necessary to navigate the complexities of truck accident claims. Our job is to fight for the maximum compensation possible for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and more. Contact our office today at (772) 569-8155 to schedule a free consultation with a St. Petersburg 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident lawyer. With our extensive experience and commitment to client success, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for accident victims. 

We’re confident that we can assist you in your pursuit of justice and financial recovery in St. Petersburg, FL. Best of all, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. 

How Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group Can Help You After a Jackknife Accident in St. Petersburg

How Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group Can Help You After a Jackknife Accident in St. Petersburg

Recovering from a serious truck accident in St. Petersburg, FL, can be overwhelming. This is especially true when financial concerns begin to mount. Medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage can create stress when you are trying to focus on recovering. Fortunately, our St. Petersburg truck accident lawyers have the experience and resources necessary to build a strong case for you. 

When you choose Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group, we take immediate action to protect your rights. We offer compassionate and reliable legal representation. 

Our comprehensive legal services include: 

  • Thoroughly investigating the accident to determine the cause or causes 
  • Collecting vital evidence and preserving witness statements and crash reports 
  • Working with expert witnesses to support your claim 
  • Negotiating with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome 
  • Providing aggressive legal representation in court if necessary 

We strongly advise against communicating with trucking companies or their insurance companies. You should not have to engage in conversations with these entities without the help of your own St. Petersburg personal injury attorney. If you do, you may put yourself at risk. These companies might try to take advantage of you, downplay your injuries, or deny responsibility for the accident altogether. 

Instead of taking on this legal challenge by yourself, turn to a trusted St. Petersburg 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident lawyer at Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group. Let us help ensure that you are treated fairly. Your initial consultation is completely free, and there is no obligation. 

What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident? 

A jackknife accident occurs when a tractor-trailer skids out of alignment, which causes the trailer to swing to the side at an angle. This can form a “V” or “L” shape relative to the cab. This happens when the truck driver loses control of the trailer. This can often be due to a sudden stop, slippery conditions, or improper handling of the truck. 

Given that a fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, jackknifing poses a serious threat to everyone on the road. Maintaining proper control over both the tractor and trailer is essential. A loss of traction can cause a devastating accident. 

Common causes of jackknife accidents include: 

  • Sudden braking or stopping, especially when traveling at high speeds
  • Failing to brake gradually 
  • Following other vehicles too closely 
  • Taking sharp turns too quickly
  • Adverse weather conditions, such as rain or ice
  • Improperly loaded cargo
  • Driving with an empty trailer, which can reduce traction 
  • Inadequate truck maintenance 
  • Driver inexperience or insufficient training 

In some cases, trucking companies may share responsibility for jackknife accidents. Some trucking companies push drivers to ignore safety regulations or fail to maintain their vehicles properly. When this happens, you can seek compensation both from the driver and the company. 

Why Are Jackknife Accidents So Dangerous? 

A jackknife accident is incredibly dangerous because the driver loses all control of the vehicle. The trailer can swing uncontrollably across the road posing a risk to anything in its path. This can cause harm to other vehicles, motorcycles, and even pedestrians. 

The immense size and weight of a tractor-trailer can lead to catastrophic consequences. In many cases, the trailer may drag other vehicles into oncoming traffic or pin them between the truck’s cab and the trailer. This can result in severe and life-threatening injuries. 

Common Injuries From Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents often result in devastating injuries due to the violent nature of the crash. 

Common injuries include: 

  • Crushing injuries
  • Burns
  • Severe lacerations and cuts 
  • Broken bones
  • Whiplash 
  • Internal bleeding and organ damage
  • Traumatic brain injuries 
  • Spinal cord injuries 
  • Permanent disability or paralysis 
  • Wrongful death

The truck accident lawyers at Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group understand the toll that these injuries can take. We’re here to advocate for you and pursue the financial compensation you need for your recovery. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Jackknife Accident in Florida? 

In Florida, the statute of limitations requires you to file a lawsuit within two years of the date of your jackknife accident. This legal deadline is strictly enforced. Failing to file within this window may result in you losing your right to pursue compensation. 

It’s crucial to act quickly. Evidence for your case can deteriorate. Witness memories can fade or become unclear. 

Make sure to preserve the best case possible by contacting a St. Petersburg jackknife truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. This will help ensure you have the strongest foundation possible for your case.  

Contact Our St. Petersburg 18-Wheeler Jackknife Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler jackknife truck accident in St. Petersburg, Florida, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The trucking company and its insurer will likely try to limit their liability and minimize your compensation. At Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group, we have the experience and determination to stand up to these companies. Our St. Petersburg 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident lawyers will fight to secure the compensation you deserve.