Trucking Jackknife Accident Attorneys in NJ
Dedicated to Serving Victims in Essex County, Hudson County, Passaic County, Bergen County, Union County, and Throughout North Jersey
When a massive commercial truck jackknifes on New Jersey's busy highways, the devastating consequences can change lives forever. These violent crashes occur when a truck's trailer swings out at a dangerous angle, creating a hazardous situation that often involves multiple vehicles and results in catastrophic injuries.
At Corradino & Papa, LLC, our NJ truck accident lawyers have dedicated over 25 years to fighting for victims of serious trucking accidents throughout North Jersey. Our team includes four attorneys certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as Civil Trial Attorneys, with more than 130 years of combined legal experience. We've recovered over $500 million for our clients, including numerous million-dollar settlements for truck accident victims. When you're facing mounting medical bills and lost wages, we handle every aspect of your legal claim so you can focus entirely on your recovery.
What Are Truck Jackknife Accidents?
What Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents?
Jackknife truck accidents occur when a commercial vehicle's trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, resembling the shape of a folding knife. These dangerous situations develop from various forms of negligence that experienced truck jackknife accident lawyers can identify and prove in court. Common causes of a jackknifing truck include:
- Truck driver error: Sudden braking, excessive speed for road conditions, and improper turning techniques
- Weather-related negligence: Failure to adjust driving for rain, snow, ice, or other hazardous conditions
- Equipment malfunctions: Brake failure, tire blowouts, or other mechanical problems causing loss of control
- Improper cargo loading: Unevenly distributed, overloaded, or inadequately secured freight affecting truck stability
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Worn brake components, faulty steering systems, or other maintenance deficiencies
- External factors: Hazardous road conditions, construction zones, or actions by other motorists
Common Injuries from Jackknife Collisions
The sheer size and weight of tractor trailers make jackknife accidents particularly devastating. When an 80,000-pound truck loses control and jackknifes across multiple lanes of traffic, the resulting collisions often cause life-altering injuries that require extensive medical treatment:
- Traumatic brain injuries: Cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and permanent disability
- Spinal cord injuries: Complete or incomplete paralysis affecting mobility and quality of life
- Multiple fractures: Pelvis, ribs, arms, and legs requiring surgical intervention and lengthy rehabilitation
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs like the liver, spleen, and lungs that can be life-threatening
- Severe burns: From vehicle fires or hazardous material spills during the accident
- Psychological trauma: Post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression requiring ongoing treatment
What to Do After a Truck Jackknife Accident
Immediate Steps to Protect Your Case
The actions you take immediately following a truck jackknife accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Follow these steps to protect your legal rights:
- Ensure Safety and Call 911: Move to a safe location if possible and request police and medical assistance immediately
- Seek Medical Attention: Accept ambulance transport even if you feel fine, as some injuries don't show symptoms immediately
- Document the Scene: Take extensive photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions before anything is moved
- Collect Information: Gather driver's license, insurance, and commercial vehicle information from the truck driver
- Identify Witnesses: Obtain contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident
- Avoid Statements: Don't discuss fault or give recorded statements to insurance companies
- Contact Legal Counsel: Reach out to experienced truck jackknife accident lawyers immediately
Why Time is Critical for Your Claim
New Jersey law requires truck accident victims to file injury claims within two years of the accident date. However, waiting too long can seriously damage your case even if you meet this deadline. Evidence disappears, witnesses become unavailable, and insurance companies have more time to build defenses against your claim.
Federal regulations require trucking companies to preserve certain records for only limited periods. Driver qualification files, maintenance records, and electronic logging data may be discarded if not preserved through legal action. Our truck jackknife accident lawyers take immediate steps to ensure all relevant evidence is preserved.
Why You Need Specialized Truck Accident Legal Representation
Complex Federal Trucking Regulations
Jackknife truck accident cases involve intricate federal regulations that don't apply to regular car accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes comprehensive rules governing commercial trucking operations, including driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance standards, and Hours of Service limitations.
Our truck jackknife accident lawyers possess detailed knowledge of these federal regulations and understand how violations can establish liability. We analyze electronic logging device data, maintenance records, and compliance documentation to identify regulatory violations that contributed to your accident.
Federal law also requires trucking companies crossing state lines to carry minimum liability insurance of $750,000 to $5 million, depending on the cargo being transported. This higher insurance coverage creates opportunities for more substantial recoveries compared to typical car accident cases.
Multiple Parties May Be Responsible
Truck jackknife accidents typically involve numerous potentially liable parties, each with separate insurance policies. Successfully recovering maximum compensation requires identifying and pursuing claims against all responsible parties.
Trucking Company Negligence
- Inadequate driver training programs failing to prepare drivers for emergency situations
- Negligent hiring practices involving drivers with poor safety records
- Pressure on drivers to violate Hours of Service regulations
- Failure to implement adequate safety policies for preventing jackknife accidents
Driver Error and Violations
- Excessive speed or following too closely for road conditions
- Hours of Service violations resulting in driver fatigue
- Distracted driving behaviors, including cell phone use
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Vehicle Maintenance Issues
- Brake system failures due to inadequate maintenance
- Tire defects or insufficient tread depth
- Steering system malfunctions affecting vehicle control
- Trailer maintenance problems creating instability
Third-Party Contractors
- Cargo loading companies creating improper weight distribution
- Maintenance contractors performing substandard repairs
- Leasing companies providing defective equipment
- Manufacturing defects in truck components or safety systems
Insurance Companies Fight Back Hard
Commercial trucking insurance companies employ teams of investigators and attorneys trained to minimize payouts in jackknife accident cases. They begin investigating immediately after an accident, often reaching the scene before victims receive proper medical attention.
These insurance companies understand that jackknife accidents can result in multi-million-dollar claims, so they fight aggressively to deny liability or reduce compensation. They may claim the accident was unavoidable, blame other drivers, or argue that your injuries aren't as serious as documented by your medical providers.
Without experienced legal representation, you're at a significant disadvantage when negotiating with these well-funded opponents. Our jackknife truck accident lawyers level the playing field by conducting our own investigation, securing evidence, and building compelling cases that insurance companies can't ignore.
Why Choose Corradino & Papa, LLC for Your Truck Accident Case?
Millions Recovered for Truck Accident Victims
Corradino & Papa, LLC has secured numerous six-figure and seven-figure recoveries for truck accident victims throughout New Jersey. Our track record includes multiple settlements exceeding $1 million for clients injured in jackknife accidents and other serious trucking crashes.
We've successfully represented victims suffering traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, and other catastrophic injuries resulting from truck jackknife accidents. Our comprehensive approach to case preparation and aggressive advocacy consistently produces results that provide our clients with the financial security they need for long-term recovery.
Comprehensive Investigation Process
Our investigation begins immediately after you retain our services, often within hours of the accident. This rapid response is crucial because evidence can disappear quickly in trucking cases.
Accident Scene Reconstruction
- Detailed photography and measurements of the accident scene
- Analysis of skid marks, debris patterns, and vehicle final positions
- Consultation with accident reconstruction experts to determine crash dynamics
- Review of traffic camera footage and witness statements
Electronic Data Recovery
- Extraction of data from the truck's electronic control module (black box)
- Analysis of electronic logging device records showing driver hours
- GPS tracking data revealing speed and location information
- Cell phone records to identify potential distracted driving
Expert Witness Testimony
- Trucking industry experts explaining federal regulation violations
- Medical experts documenting the extent and permanency of injuries
- Economic experts calculating lifetime financial losses
- Accident reconstruction specialists providing courtroom testimony
No Upfront Fees: We Only Get Paid When You Win
We represent truck jackknife accident victims on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your injuries. This arrangement ensures that financial concerns don't prevent you from obtaining quality legal representation when you need it most.
We advance all costs associated with investigating and litigating your case, including expert witness fees, court costs, and medical record retrieval expenses. You can focus on your recovery while we handle every aspect of your legal claim.
Contact Corradino & Papa, LLC for a Free Case Evaluation Today
24/7 Availability for Emergency Consultations
Truck jackknife accidents aren't limited to business hours, and neither should your access to legal help. Our team is available 24/7 to discuss your case and begin the investigation process immediately. We understand that the first hours after a serious accident are crucial for preserving evidence and protecting your rights.
Convenient Consultation Options
Serious injuries from truck jackknife accidents can make traveling to a law office difficult or impossible. That's why we offer flexible consultation options designed around your needs and recovery timeline. Our attorneys can meet with you at our Clifton office, visit you at home, or even conduct consultations at the hospital if necessary. We also provide multilingual services to ensure clear communication throughout your case, and you'll have direct access to your attorney's cell phone number for immediate questions or concerns.
For a free consultation with an expert jackknife truck accident lawyer in NJ, contact Corradino & Papa, LLC online or call 973-381-1706.
