St. Louis Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyers

jackknife truck accident

Jackknifing is a type of accident specific to articulated vehicles such as semi-trucks and tractor-trailers. A jackknife accident occurs when the tractor loses traction with the road surface, causing the trailer to push the tractor to one side. When this occurs, the tractor and trailer fold towards one another at the hitch like a closing pocketknife. A semi-truck skidding out of control across the highway can cause a devastating accident.

If you’re struggling to overcome injuries after a jackknife truck accident in St. Louis, the attorneys with Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC can help you seek compensation from those legally responsible for your injuries. The awards and recognition we have received are a testament to the success we’ve had for our clients. We’ve been given the highest AV Preeminent® rating from the Martindale-Hubbell legal directory and a 10.0 Superb score on the rating service Avvo. Many of our attorneys have membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum® and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®.

If you have been injured in a collision involving a semi-truck in St. Louis, call Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC at (800) 746-0226 or contact us online for a free initial case evaluation with a St. Louis truck accident lawyer.

What To Do Right After a Jackknife Truck Accident in St. Louis, MO

The aftermath of a jackknife truck accident can be disorienting. Taking the following steps can protect your health and your right to recovery:

  • Seek medical care so a doctor can diagnose, treat, and document your injuries.
  • Follow your doctor’s care plan and attend all follow-up appointments.
  • Start a journal to record details of your recovery as you heal from the crash.
  • Gather evidence from the crash. Take photos and get the names of any eyewitnesses.
  • Keep copies of medical bills, proof of lost wages, and other key documentation.
  • Watch what you say to the truck driver and other parties after the accident.
  • Refrain from posting photos or information online while your case is pending.
  • Contact a knowledgeable jackknife truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Why Choose Craig, Kelley & Faultless for Your Jackknife Truck Accident?

The attorneys at Craig, Kelley & Faultless have successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases, including many involving jackknifing trucks. We know how to investigate truck crashes to determine fault, identify who is financially liable, and negotiate with insurance companies to demand fair settlements. Our legal team includes accomplished trial attorneys if we need to go to court to pursue justice for you. Two of our partner attorneys have attained board certification from the National Board of Trial Advocacy in commercial truck accident law.

We pride ourselves on the individualized attention we provide our clients. When you work with us, you’ll receive your attorney’s direct cell number. You can count on us to return calls promptly, answer your questions, and be as available as you need us to be.  

What Are Recoverable Damages or Compensation in a Jackknife Truck Accident in Missouri?

Recoverable damages for a jackknife truck accident can compensate you financially for a wide range of losses, such as:

  • Hospital bills and other medical expenses you incur due to your injuries
  • Incidental expenses, such as out-of-pocket costs for medical travel
  • Reduced income from any time you miss work due to the accident
  • Projected losses in future earnings potential due to permanent injuries
  • Pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life

What Is the Time Limit You Have for a Jackknife Truck Accident Lawsuit in Missouri?

In Missouri, you have five years after a jackknife truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for your losses. This five-year window to file a personal injury lawsuit begins on the date of the truck accident.

Be aware that if you wait too long to file a lawsuit, the court could dismiss it as untimely, causing you to lose your right to have your case heard in court. An insurer or at-fault party will be much less likely to negotiate a fair settlement after the filing deadline has passed. Commercial truck accidents are complicated to investigate That’s why it’s so important to get help from a knowledgeable personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a serious truck accident. 

How Is Liability Determined Liability in a Jackknife Truck Accident?

The person who is responsible for an accident may be legally liable for compensating any accident victims for the harm they have suffered. When insurance adjusters, attorneys, and investigators seek to determine liability after an accident, they will review evidence such as:

  • Photos of vehicle wreckage, visible injuries
  • Video footage of the collision from the dashboard or traffic cameras
  • Police accident reports
  • Driver toxicology test results
  • Statements from witnesses who saw the jackknife accident occur
  • Testimony from experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists
  • The truck driver’s cell phone, GPS, or truck maintenance records
  • The truck’s black box data recorder
  • The trucking company’s screening, hiring, training, or testing records

How Our Attorneys Can Help You Overcome a Jackknife Truck Accident

The team at Craig, Kelley & Faultless can help you deal with a jackknife truck accident claim by:

  • Explaining your rights and identifying sources of compensation for your claim
  • Conducting an independent investigation into the jackknife truck accident
  • Communicating with carriers, insurers, and other parties on your behalf
  • Obtaining medical records, crash reports, and other evidence supporting your claim
  • Interviewing eyewitnesses and medical experts
  • Managing important case documents, details, and deadlines on your behalf
  • Negotiating with the insurance company to maximize your claim settlement
  • Taking your case to court and representing you at trial if necessary

Most Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents in Missouri

Common causes of jackknife truck accidents include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Texting while driving
  • Driver fatigue
  • Driving too fast 
  • Following too closely 
  • Failure to check blind spots
  • Failure to yield the right of way
  • Improper turning or merging
  • Driver inexperience
  • Cargo shifts and spills
  • Defective truck parts
  • Poorly-maintained truck parts
  • Poor road conditions
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Most Common Injuries in Jackknife Truck Accidents in Missouri

Some of the most common injuries resulting from jackknife truck accidents include the following:

  • Head and neck injuries
  • Facial and dental injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries 
  • Back and shoulder injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries 
  • Seatbelt and airbag injuries
  • Abdominal and internal injuries
  • Arm, elbow, wrist, and hand injuries
  • Dislocated or broken bones
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Amputation and loss of limb
  • Bruises, lacerations, and puncture wounds
  • Soft tissue strains, sprains, and tears
  • Leg, knee, ankle, and foot injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Schedule a Free Case Review with Our Experienced St. Louis Jackknife Truck Accident Attorneys

If you have been injured in a jackknife truck accident in St. Louis, call Craig, Kelley & Faultless at (800) 746-0226 or contact us online today. We can provide the answers to your questions after we review the details of your accident during our free initial consultation. We do not charge any legal fee for handling your case unless we obtain compensation for you through a negotiated settlement or jury award.