Jackknife accidents in Lake County, Illinois, can be some of the most devastating crashes on the road. A jackknife accident occurs when a tractor-trailer’s cab and trailer fold toward each other at an angle, resembling a pocketknife.
This dangerous situation often occurs due to sudden braking, slick roads, or equipment failure and can lead to devastating multi-vehicle crashes. At Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced Lake County truck accident lawyers understand that these crashes are rarely “accidents” in the truest sense.
Tractor-trailers jackknife because of negligence—reckless driving, improper braking, or another preventable error.
Our team is committed to holding negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable. With 68 years of combined experience, we have helped injured victims recover over $125 million.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Lake County jackknife accident, you deserve experienced legal representation. Call us today at (847) 513-9582 for a free consultation, and let us fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
How Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You After a Jackknife Accident in Lake County, IL
If you were injured in a jackknife accident, you need a skilled personal injury lawyer in Lake County, IL, to fight for the compensation you deserve. These truck accidents frequently cause catastrophic injuries with long-term physical, emotional, and financial consequences.
Securing the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care is not automatic—trucking companies and their insurers will fight aggressively to minimize payouts.
At Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers, our Lake County jackknife accident attorneys are prepared to stand up to trucking companies and protect your rights. We know what it takes to build a strong claim and help you recover the necessary damages.
For example, we can:
- Investigate your crash thoroughly and obtain evidence showing how the crash occurred
- Ensure your claim is filed on time within Illinois’ two-year statute of limitations
- Handle communication with insurance adjusters, lawyers, and trucking company representatives
- If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, take your case to trial
Going up against a large trucking company on your own can feel overwhelming. With Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers, you’ll have a strong and informed advocate fighting for your best interests every step.
Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Lake County truck accident attorney and learn how we can help you pursue justice and the compensation you deserve.
How Common Are Jackknife Accidents?
Unfortunately, jackknife accidents are more common than many people realize. Federal data shows 5,169 jackknife accidents in 2023, the most recent reporting year.
Because these crashes involve large trucks, they carry a much higher risk of property damage, fatalities, and multi-vehicle collisions. In Illinois, the Department of Transportation recorded 336 crashes involving tractor-trailer combination vehicles in 2023 alone.
These numbers highlight just how dangerous jackknife truck accidents can be for drivers in Lake County and throughout Illinois.
What Happens When a Truck Jackknifes?
A jackknife happens when a trailer swings around next to the semi truck pulling it, creating a V shape.
Many drivers who have never operated a commercial vehicle might not appreciate the difficulty and challenges of safely pulling a trailer. Many factors may cause these accidents.
For example:
- Speeding
- Improper braking
- Adverse weather conditions
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Equipment failure
Additionally, fatigued or inexperienced drivers may not react appropriately to these conditions and fail to prevent a jackknife accident from happening.
Because so many factors can contribute, jackknife accidents are often complex events that require careful investigation to determine who is at fault.
Who Is Liable for a Jackknife Accident in Lake County?
Ultimately, both the truck driver and their employer are responsible for ensuring the safe operation of a commercial vehicle. Jackknife accidents often occur when a driver speeds, fails to account for icy conditions, or brakes suddenly, and in these cases, the driver and trucking company can be held liable.
In some cases, other parties may also share responsibility. For example, a truck or parts manufacturer could face product liability if a defective component contributed to the accident.
At the same time, local government agencies may be at fault for designing unsafe roads, failing to clear hazards, or neglecting to warn drivers of dangerous conditions.
Because liability can involve multiple parties, it is crucial to work with an experienced Lake County jackknife accident lawyer who can identify every source of compensation.
Contact Our Lake County Jackknife Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Jackknife accidents in Lake County, Illinois, can leave victims facing overwhelming injuries, expenses, and uncertainty.
At Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers, our Lake County jackknife accident attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and fighting for the full compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you move forward after a jackknife accident.
