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If you live in Melbourne or Orlando and need an auto or truck accident lawyer, contact attorney Frank Eidson for intelligent, aggressive representation.
Frank M. Eidson, P.A.
327 North Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: 866.439.1160
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Orlando Truck and Auto Accident Attorney – Jackknifing Information from a Lawyer
Trucking accidents kill or injure thousands of people every year, and many of these accidents are due to jackknifing. Jackknifing occurs when the driver loses control of the vehicle and the trailer slides out from behind the cab of the truck, creating an angle similar to that created by the blade and handle of a folding knife. Because of the size of these vehicles, they typically hit and damage other cars when they jackknife. Victims of these accidents often report that they had no idea they were in any danger until it was too late. Serving Melbourne and Orlando as an auto and truck accident attorney, lawyer Frank M. Eidson can help victims obtain the compensation they deserve.
What Is Jackknifing?
Jackknifing occurs when the truck’s drive wheels lock and cause the cab to skid. The trailer, since it rolls faster than the cab skids, tends to swing out to the side of the cab, overtaking it and forming the angle with the cab for which jackknifing is named. This happens most commonly with trucks traveling on steep downhill sections when the driver must brake abruptly. If a truck jackknifes, an accident is extremely likely, and other cars on the road nearby may be hit.
Causes
The main factors involved in jackknifing are the speed of the truck and the steepness of the road. An increase in either one will increase the risk of jackknifing. The roadway may play a factor. For instance, if the roadway is wet or poorly maintained, the chances for an accident are much greater. The driver must take such risk factors into account, in addition to the speed and efficiency encouraged by trucking companies. For this reason, the experience and training of a driver may also play into whether a truck accident occurs, and how serious it is.
Driver Reaction
How a truck driver reacts during the first seconds of a possible jackknife can make the difference between a terrible truck accident and a close call. Although jackknifing can almost always be avoided by driving slower, the right combination of braking and steering can sometimes straighten the truck out and prevent it from hitting other vehicles. If the cab starts to skid, the driver can release the brakes and steer into the skid to straighten it out. If the truck is already starting to jackknife, the driver can lock the steering axle brakes, losing steering control but causing the entire rig to move straight ahead in one direction. He or she can also lock the brakes on the trailer axle, though this often causes the trailer to swing even more wildly. The reaction of the driver in the first few seconds of a jackknife is critical in preventing a truck accident. Our Orlando and Melbourne area auto and truck accident attorney, lawyer Frank Eidson, can help determine if the driver is at fault for the accident that caused your injury.
Contact Melbourne-area Auto and Truck Accident Attorney Frank Eidson
Jackknifing can result in traumatic accidents, depending on how the driver reacts. At our practice we treat each client with dignity and respect, taking the time to listen, advise, and answer any questions from our Melbourne and Orlando area clients. Our auto and truck accident lawyer, attorney Frank Eidson, has an extensive knowledge of Florida law and the experience necessary to obtain compensation for his clients. Please contact our office for a free case review.