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Jackknife & Rollover Truck Accidents in Utah

Truck accidents can have life-altering consequences, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Let Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks provide the legal support and advocacy you need.

Jackknife and rollover truck accidents are among the most dangerous and devastating types of crashes on Utah’s highways. These accidents often result in multi-vehicle collisions, catastrophic injuries, and extensive property damage, leaving victims facing overwhelming medical expenses and legal challenges. 

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, while rollovers happen when a truck loses stability and tips over, blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, these crashes can have life-altering consequences for those involved. 

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our experienced Utah truck accident lawyers understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to helping victims hold negligent truck drivers and companies accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife or rollover accident, contact us today to discuss your legal options.

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What Causes Jackknife & Rollover Accidents?

Jackknife and rollover accidents involving large commercial trucks are some of the most catastrophic crashes on Utah’s roads. These accidents not only put truck drivers at risk but also endanger other motorists. 

While various factors contribute to these types of accidents, they often involve a combination of driver error, mechanical failure, road conditions, and improper cargo loading. 

Understanding these causes can help injured victims determine liability and seek compensation.

Understanding Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife accident occurs when a truck’s trailer swings outward, forming an angle with the cab that resembles a folding pocketknife. This happens when the trailer loses traction and moves independently of the cab, making it impossible for the driver to regain control. 

Several factors contribute to jackknife accidents, including:

Sudden Braking

Hard braking, especially on slippery roads, can cause the trailer’s wheels to lock up while the cab continues moving forward.

Speeding on Curves

Taking sharp turns at high speeds can make the trailer swing out of alignment.

Poor Weather Conditions

Rain, snow, and ice reduce traction, increasing the risk of jackknifing when a driver loses control.

Unbalanced or Shifting Loads

Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, throwing off the truck’s balance and leading to a jackknife situation.

Understanding Rollover Accidents

A rollover accident occurs when a truck tips onto its side or completely overturns. These crashes are often deadly, as they can involve multi-vehicle collisions and widespread damage. 

Some of the leading causes of rollover accidents include:

  • Excessive Speed: Speeding, especially on curves or exit ramps, increases the likelihood of a truck rolling over due to centrifugal force.
  • Driver Fatigue: Tired truck drivers have slower reaction times and may make critical mistakes that lead to rollovers.
  • Improperly Loaded Cargo: An unbalanced load can cause a truck to become unstable, particularly during turns or sudden maneuvers.
  • Soft or Uneven Road Shoulders: If a truck’s tires drop onto a soft shoulder, the weight shift can cause a rollover.
  • Tire Blowouts: A sudden tire failure can cause a driver to lose control, increasing the risk of a rollover accident.

Mechanical Failures and Negligence

Truck accidents aren’t always the result of driver mistakes; mechanical issues and maintenance failures can also play a significant role. Defective brakes, worn-out tires, and steering system malfunctions all contribute to jackknife and rollover accidents. 

Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles and ensuring they meet federal safety standards. When they fail to do so, they may be held liable for resulting crashes.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife or rollover truck accident, Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks is here to help. Our experienced Utah truck accident lawyers can investigate the crash, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice.

Common Road Conditions That Lead to Truck Rollovers

Truck rollover accidents are some of the most severe crashes on Utah’s highways, often resulting in devastating injuries and significant property damage. While driver behavior and mechanical issues play a role in these accidents, road conditions can also be a major contributing factor. 

Poorly maintained roads, hazardous weather, and sudden changes in terrain can all increase the risk of a truck tipping over. Understanding these dangerous conditions can help both truck drivers and other motorists stay alert and reduce the likelihood of a rollover accident.

Slippery or Wet Roads

Rain, snow, and ice create hazardous conditions that reduce traction and increase the likelihood of a truck rollover. When a truck’s tires lose grip on the road, the driver may struggle to maintain control, especially when making turns or braking suddenly. Black ice is particularly hazardous because it is nearly invisible, causing unexpected skids that can lead to rollovers.

Uneven or Soft Road Shoulders

Truck drivers often move toward the shoulder of the road to avoid collisions or allow emergency vehicles to pass. However, if the shoulder is uneven, narrow, or made of loose gravel, the truck’s tires may sink or shift, throwing off the vehicle’s balance. This can result in a rollover, particularly if the driver overcorrects when trying to return to the main roadway.

Sharp Curves and Steep Inclines

Curved roads and steep inclines require careful handling, particularly for large commercial trucks carrying heavy loads. Taking a curve too fast or failing to adjust speed on a downhill slope can cause a truck to tip over due to excessive centrifugal force. Some of the most dangerous areas include:

  • Exit ramps and interchanges: Sharp turns at highway exits require slower speeds, which some truck drivers fail to observe.
  • Mountainous roads: Steep declines and sharp switchbacks can lead to loss of control, especially if a truck’s brakes fail.

Potholes and Poorly Maintained Roads

Damaged roads with potholes, cracks, or sudden drop-offs can destabilize a truck, particularly if the driver is traveling at high speeds. Hitting a deep pothole may cause a sudden shift in weight distribution, increasing the risk of a rollover. Additionally, uneven pavement can make it harder for a truck’s tires to maintain full contact with the road, leading to a loss of control.

Staying Safe on Dangerous Roads

Truck drivers must be extra cautious when navigating hazardous road conditions. Reducing speed, maintaining a proper following distance, and avoiding sudden maneuvers can help prevent rollovers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck rollover accident caused by dangerous road conditions, Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks can help you seek compensation for your losses. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Liability in Jackknife and Rollover Truck Accidents

Jackknife and rollover accidents are among the most dangerous types of truck crashes, often resulting in severe injuries, fatalities, and extensive property damage. Determining liability in these accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. 

Factors such as driver negligence, improper cargo loading, mechanical failures, and hazardous road conditions all play a role in these crashes. Understanding who may be liable is crucial for victims seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Driver Negligence

Truck drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely and following state and federal trucking regulations. However, reckless or negligent behavior can significantly increase the risk of a jackknife or rollover accident. 

Common examples of driver negligence include:

  • Speeding and Sudden Braking: Driving too fast, especially on curves or slippery roads, can cause a truck to lose control and either jackknife or rollover.
  • Distracted or Fatigued Driving: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, impairing a driver’s reaction time. Distractions such as texting or eating while driving can also contribute to loss of control.
  • Improper Maneuvers: Making sharp turns, abrupt lane changes, or failing to adjust speed in dangerous conditions can result in a crash.

If driver negligence is a factor, the truck driver and their employer may be held accountable for the resulting damages.

Trucking Company Liability

Trucking companies have a legal duty to ensure their drivers are adequately trained, and their vehicles are in safe working condition. A company may be liable for a jackknife or rollover accident if they:

  • Fail to train or supervise drivers properly
  • Allow drivers to violate federal hours-of-service regulations
  • Neglect routine vehicle inspections and maintenance
  • Push drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules, leading to speeding or fatigue

When a trucking company’s negligence contributes to an accident, they may be held financially responsible for injuries and damages.

Cargo Loading Errors

Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo is a major cause of jackknife and rollover accidents. If a truck’s load shifts unexpectedly, it can throw off the vehicle’s stability, making it difficult to control. Cargo loading companies or the trucking company itself may be held liable if they:

  • Exceed legal weight limits
  • Fail to secure cargo properly
  • Load cargo unevenly, increasing the risk of tipping

Mechanical Failures and Manufacturer Liability

Trucks must be regularly inspected to ensure they meet safety standards. If a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, causes a crash, multiple parties may be liable, including:

  • The trucking company, if they failed to maintain the vehicle properly
  • A third-party maintenance provider, if repairs were done incorrectly
  • The vehicle or parts manufacturer, if a defective component contributed to the accident

Road Conditions and Government Liability

Poorly maintained roads or dangerous conditions sometimes contribute to jackknife and rollover accidents. If a road defect, such as large potholes, inadequate signage, or uneven pavement, played a role in the crash, a government agency responsible for road maintenance may be held liable. However, suing a government entity involves specific legal challenges, including strict deadlines for filing claims.

Steps to Take After a Jackknife or Rollover Accident

Being involved in a jackknife or rollover truck accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. These crashes often lead to severe injuries and significant property damage, making it essential to take the right steps in the aftermath. 

Whether you are a truck driver, passenger, or another motorist involved in the accident, knowing what to do can protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation.

Seek Medical Attention

Your safety and well-being should be the top priority. Even if you do not feel injured immediately, some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical attention ensures that any injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly.

Call 911 and Report the Accident

It is crucial to contact law enforcement as soon as possible. A police report will document important details about the crash, including witness statements and initial fault determinations. This report can serve as valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If it is safe to do so, collect as much evidence as possible to support your case. Important steps include:

Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.

Obtaining contact information from witnesses who saw the crash.

Noting weather conditions, traffic signs, and any potential hazards that may have contributed to the accident.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Be factual, but avoid admitting fault or giving detailed statements before consulting a knowledgeable Utah truck accident lawyer.

Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident claims can be complex, involving multiple liable parties. A skilled Utah truck accident lawyer can help protect your rights, gather crucial evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife or rollover truck accident, you deserve experienced legal representation to help you navigate the complexities of your case. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our dedicated Utah truck accident lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. We understand the challenges you face and will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation at (801) 500-4000, and let us help you take the first step toward justice.