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How to prevent a jackknife accident

On Behalf of | Dec 9, 2019 | Truck Accidents |

Jackknifing on California roads can lead to serious injuries for drivers as well as a loss of cargo. However, there are steps that a driver can take to prevent this from taking place. It is important to inspect a trailer while driving to ensure that it is not swaying or swinging. It is also important to not brake too hard when a trailer is either empty or lighter than normal.

This is because brake systems are designed to work best when a trailer is full. Furthermore, heavier trailers have greater traction with the road, which reduces the chances of an accident occurring. Drivers who need to slow their vehicles should do so while on flat stretches of highway as opposed to when they are coming into bends in the road. It is also easier to avoid hard braking events by observing a safe speed and following distance from other vehicles.

This may make it easier to avoid braking and swerving at the same time. Ideally, a driver will swerve, brake and then take his or her foot off the brake to swerve again. It is important to note that any vehicle that is towing something behind it could be involved in a jackknife event. With smaller vehicles, the odds of a jackknife tend to be greatest while they are going in reverse.

A Costa Mesa truck accident injury compensation law firm may be able to help those who have been victims of a commercial truck accident. Injured victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, damage done to personal property or other costs associated with the wreck. An attorney may use police reports, driver statements or other evidence to help an accident victim obtain a favorable outcome either at trial or through a negotiated settlement.

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