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What Is a Jackknife Accident?
Were you or a loved one injured in a jackknife accident? You deserve aggressive legal representation from a firm that understands how to take on trucking companies, insurance providers, and their legal teams.
PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER NEW MEXICO
Jackknife Accident Attorneys
A jackknife accident occurs when a large truck (typically a tractor-trailer or semi-truck) skids and the trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab that resembles the folding of a pocketknife. This sudden loss of control can cause the truck to sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, strike other vehicles, or block the entire roadway.
Don’t let trucking companies or insurers push you into a low settlement. Let Raymon Law Group investigate your case, prove fault, and fight for full compensation.
Personal Injury Lawyer
Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents
1. Sudden Braking or Skidding
When a truck driver brakes too hard or too suddenly—especially in bad weather—it can cause the wheels to lock up and the trailer to swing outward uncontrollably.
2. Slippery Roads
Rain, ice, snow, or oil on the road can reduce traction, making it difficult for drivers to control their trucks during stops or turns.
3. Speeding or Driving Too Fast for Conditions
Driving at high speeds, especially around curves or during heavy traffic, increases the risk of losing control.
4. Improperly Loaded Cargo
Unbalanced or overweight cargo can shift during travel, destabilizing the trailer and contributing to a jackknife event.
5. Driver Fatigue or Inexperience
Long hours and lack of proper training can impair a trucker’s ability to respond quickly and safely to road hazards.
6. Mechanical Failures
Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering issues can all cause a driver to lose control and jackknife
Who Is Liable for a Jackknife Truck Accident?
Liability in a jackknife accident can involve multiple parties. Your attorney will investigate to determine fault, which may include:
The truck driver – if negligence, fatigue, or speeding caused the accident.
The trucking company – for poor hiring practices, improper maintenance, or encouraging unsafe driving schedules.
Cargo loaders – if improperly secured cargo contributed to the crash.
Maintenance providers – if a mechanical failure was caused by poor repair work.
Truck or parts manufacturers – in cases of defective equipment or mechanical failure.
Personal Injury Lawyer
Common Injuries in Jackknife Accidents
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
High-impact collisions can cause the brain to jolt within the skull, leading to concussions or permanent cognitive damage. Victims may experience memory loss, mood changes, or lifelong neurological issues.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Sudden force on the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require lifelong medical care, physical therapy, and assistive devices.
Broken Bones
Fractures are common due to crushing impacts from large trucks. Multiple or compound fractures may need surgical intervention and extended recovery periods.
Internal Bleeding
Blunt trauma can damage internal organs and cause bleeding that's not immediately visible. Without quick medical attention, internal bleeding can become life-threatening.
Severe Burns or Lacerations
Jackknife crashes often involve fuel leaks, fires, or shattered glass. Victims may suffer deep cuts or burns requiring skin grafts and leaving permanent scars.
Wrongful Death
When a jackknife accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation can help cover funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If you or a loved one was injured in a jackknife truck accident in New Mexico, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost income or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation or long-term care
- Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed)
At Raymon Law Group, we pursue full and fair compensation — not lowball settlements from insurance companies.
What to Do After a Jackknife Accident
Taking the right steps after a jackknife crash can protect your health and legal rights:
Prioritize Safety and Call 911
Move to a safe location if possible and check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately to report the accident — police and emergency responders will document the scene and provide medical aid.
Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of the crash, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information. This evidence can be vital in proving fault later.
Medical Diagnosis
Even if you feel okay, get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries — like internal trauma or concussions — may not show symptoms right away. Medical records are crucial for your injury claim.
Contact Truck Accident Lawyer
Jackknife accidents often involve multiple parties and complex liability. Reach out to Raymon Law Group for a free case review. We’ll investigate the accident, gather expert evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
New Mexico Personal Injury lawyer
How Raymon Law Group Can Help
Truck accident cases are complex and high-stakes. At Raymon Law Group, we bring years of experience, expert resources, and aggressive negotiation to the table. When you work with us, you get:
- Immediate legal support and investigation
- Access to accident reconstructionists and trucking industry experts
- Complete handling of insurance and legal paperwork
- Powerful courtroom representation if needed
We fight to hold negligent trucking companies accountable — and secure maximum compensation for our clients.
Location Served
We Represent
Individuals & Families
throughout New Mexico
Frequently Asked Questions
You Have Questions. We Have Answers.
A: Jackknife accidents are unique because the trailer swings out at an angle, often causing multi-lane collisions and more extensive damage.
A: New Mexico follows a comparative fault rule, so you may still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
A: The statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the accident, but it’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and witness testimony.
A: Every case is different. Compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, impact on your life, and available evidence. We offer free evaluations to estimate your case value.