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Get Legal Help After a Jackknife Truck Accident in Phoenix
Jackknife truck accidents are some of the most violent and destructive crashes on Arizona roadways. When a large commercial truck folds at the trailer and swings out of control, it can block multiple lanes of traffic and cause devastating multi-vehicle collisions. If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife accident, working with an experienced Phoenix jackknife truck accident lawyer is critical to protecting your rights and pursuing full compensation.
Farar & Lewis offers free consultations to jackknife accident victims in Phoenix. Our legal team understands the complexities of commercial truck crashes and is prepared to hold negligent parties accountable.
Call us today to speak with someone immediately about your case at (602) 883-2633.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife accident occurs when the cab of a truck and its trailer fold inward at a sharp angle, resembling a folding pocketknife. This typically happens when the truck’s wheels lose traction and the trailer swings uncontrollably.
Jackknife accidents often:
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Block multiple lanes of traffic
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Involve several passenger vehicles
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Result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities
Due to the size and force involved, these crashes are far more dangerous than standard vehicle accidents.
Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents
Jackknife accidents are almost always the result of negligence. Common causes include:
Sudden or Improper Braking
When a truck driver brakes too hard or too suddenly, especially at high speeds, the trailer can swing forward and lose alignment.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to maintain control, particularly during turns or sudden traffic changes.
Poor Weather Conditions
Rain, dust storms, or slick roadways common in Arizona can reduce tire traction and increase jackknife risk.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Uneven or unsecured cargo can shift during transport, destabilizing the trailer.
Mechanical Failures
Faulty brakes, worn tires, or steering system failures can cause a loss of control.
Identifying the precise cause of the accident is essential for determining liability.
Who May Be Liable in a Jackknife Accident?
Unlike typical car accidents, jackknife truck crashes often involve multiple liable parties. Depending on the facts of the case, responsibility may fall on:
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The truck driver
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The trucking company
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Cargo loading companies
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Maintenance providers
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Truck or brake system manufacturers
Arizona law allows victims to pursue compensation from all responsible parties. A Phoenix jackknife truck accident lawyer conducts a thorough investigation to uncover every source of liability.
Injuries Commonly Caused by Jackknife Accidents
Due to the violent nature of jackknife crashes, injuries are often severe and life-altering. Victims may suffer from:
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
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Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
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Multiple broken bones
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Crush injuries
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Internal organ damage
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Severe burns
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Wrongful death injuries
Many victims require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support.
The Role of Federal Trucking Regulations
Commercial trucks are governed by strict safety rules enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover:
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Driver training and qualifications
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Hours-of-service limits
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Vehicle maintenance and inspections
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Cargo securement standards
Violations of FMCSA regulations can provide powerful evidence of negligence in jackknife accident cases. An experienced Phoenix jackknife truck accident lawyer reviews driver logs, inspection records, and black box data to uncover violations.
Compensation Available to Jackknife Accident Victims
Victims of jackknife truck accidents may be entitled to significant compensation due to the severity of their injuries.
Economic Damages
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Emergency medical treatment
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Hospitalization and surgeries
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Ongoing medical care and rehabilitation
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Lost wages
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Loss of future earning capacity
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Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Loss of enjoyment of life
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Permanent disability or disfigurement
Punitive Damages
In cases involving gross negligence or repeated safety violations, punitive damages may be awarded to punish wrongdoing and deter future misconduct.
Why Trucking Companies Act Quickly After Jackknife Accidents
After a serious jackknife accident, trucking companies often deploy investigators immediately to control evidence and limit liability. Their goal is to protect company interests—not the injured victims.
Without legal representation, victims may face:
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Pressure to provide recorded statements
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Low settlement offers
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Delays or claim denials
A Phoenix jackknife truck accident lawyer protects your rights from the very beginning.
How Farar Law Group Handles Jackknife Accident Cases
At Farar Law Group, we approach jackknife accident cases with the resources and experience they demand. Our legal team works with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and industry specialists to build strong, evidence-based claims.
We focus on:
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Preserving critical evidence
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Identifying all liable parties
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Analyzing regulatory violations
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Negotiating aggressively with insurers
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Taking cases to trial when necessary
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Arizona’s Statute of Limitations for Jackknife Accidents
In most cases, Arizona law requires personal injury claims to be filed within two years of the accident date. Truck accident cases may involve additional complexities, especially when interstate trucking companies are involved.
Early legal involvement helps preserve evidence and protect your claim.
Call Farar Law Group After a Jackknife Truck Accident in Phoenix
If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife truck accident, you deserve experienced legal representation and full accountability from negligent parties.
Contact Farar Law Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Phoenix accident lawyer. Let us fight for the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.
Call us today to speak with someone immediately about your case at (602) 883-2633.
Sources
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Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Truck Safety Regulations
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov -
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Large Truck Crash Data
https://www.nhtsa.gov -
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety – Truck Crash Research
https://www.iihs.org - Trucking Industry Trends in 2026
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