What is a jackknife accident?

A jackknife accident occurs when a large truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding pocket knife. These accidents can be extremely dangerous, often leading to multi-vehicle collisions, roadway blockages, and severe injuries.

Understanding what causes these accidents, who may be liable, and how to seek compensation is crucial if you or a loved one has been affected. Below, a Murfreesboro truck accident lawyer at Weir & Kestner Injury Lawyers answers common questions to help you navigate the aftermath of a jackknife accident in Tennessee.

How common are jackknife accidents in Tennessee?

Jackknife accidents are a serious concern on Tennessee highways, particularly on busy routes like I-24 and I-840 near Murfreesboro, with high traffic volume and frequent elevation changes. The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security reported over 13,000 truck-related crashes in 2024, with jackknifing being one of the more hazardous types.

What should I do after a jackknife accident?

If you’re involved in a jackknife accident, take the following steps:

• Call 911 and seek medical attention.
• Gather evidence, such as photos of the accident scene and witness contact information.
• Avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before speaking to our lawyers.
• Contact our Murfreesboro truck accident attorneys to protect your rights.

Why do jackknife accidents happen?

Several factors can contribute to a jackknife accident, including:

• Braking too quickly: If a truck driver slams on the brakes, especially on a slick road, the trailer may continue moving forward and swing outward towards the tractor.
• Poor weather conditions: Rain, ice, and snow can reduce traction, increasing the likelihood of jackknifing.
• Speeding: Excessive speed makes it harder to control a truck, especially when making sudden stops or turns.
• Driver fatigue: Drowsy driving slows reaction times, increasing the risk of improper braking or oversteering.
• Improper loading: An unbalanced or overloaded trailer can make it more difficult to control the truck.
• Mechanical failure: Issues with brakes, tires, or steering can lead to loss of control.

Who is liable for a jackknife accident?

Determining liability depends on the circumstances, but potentially responsible parties include:

• The truck driver: If the driver was speeding, fatigued, or negligent, they may be at fault.
• The trucking company: If the company fails to train drivers properly, enforces unrealistic schedules, or neglects vehicle maintenance, it may be liable.
• A third-party maintenance provider: A maintenance company could share responsibility if mechanical failure caused the accident.
• A cargo loading company: If improper loading contributed to the crash, the company responsible for loading the truck may be accountable.

How Can Weir & Kestner Injury Lawyers Help?

Our experienced personal injury attorneys can:

• Investigate the accident’s cause.
• Gather evidence such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts.
• Negotiate with insurance companies.
• File a lawsuit if necessary to seek fair compensation.

Helping you recover compensation after a jackknife accident

Victims of jackknife truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for current and future medical expenses, lost wages and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and property damage. Those who lose family members in a jackknife accident may have grounds to recover these losses and more in a wrongful death lawsuit.  

Making sure you file your claim on time

Tennessee law generally allows one year from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, trucking accident cases can be complex, so it’s best to consult our team as soon as possible.

Contact Weir & Kestner Injury Lawyers today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a jackknife accident, contact our qualified truck accident lawyers at (615) 220-4180 for a free consultation. We can help you navigate Tennessee’s legal process and protect your rights.