Factors Which Affect Jackknife or Rollover Truck Accidents

Most types of motor vehicle collisions are fairly straightforward. Driver inattention, excessive speed, and alcohol are frequently associated with a large portion of all auto accidents in the U.S. But jackknife accidents and rollover crashes of tractor trailers are a bit more complex in how they are caused. If you were seriously injured in a truck accident in Clarksburg that involved either one of these scenarios, you may have questions about truck driver liability and what can cause these types of accidents. 

Variables in Jackknife and Rollover Truck Accidents

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has discovered that several variables alter the likelihood of a truck jackknifing or rolling over. These variables can actually be entered into a formula to determine how much they affect the chances of these accidents occurring.

When researchers analyzed a 4-year period of jackknife and rollover truck accidents, here's what they discovered: 

• On curved roads, a truck is 6 times more likely to roll over and 86% more likely to jackknife than on a straight road.
• In inclement weather, a truck is about 3 times more likely to roll over or jackknife than in good weather.
• In poor lighting conditions, a truck is 12% more likely to roll over and 43% more likely to jackknife than in good lighting conditions.
• A 10 mph jump in the speed limit raises the odds of a rollover accident by 172% and of a jackknife accident by 49%.
• A 10% increase in truck weight raises the odds of a rollover accident by 23% but reduces the odds of a jackknife accident by 2%.
• A 10% increase in truck length reduces the odds of a rollover accident by 10% but raises the odds of a jackknife accident by 14%. 

For more information on truck jackknife and rollover accidents, read our article on Common Types of Fatal Truck Accidents. 

Contacting a Clarksburg Truck Accident Lawyer

When trucks collide with passenger cars, the results will likely be life-changing. Although there will be a lot of questions and important decisions to make during this time, choosing the right legal representation can help you make the most informed decisions possible while you seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. The Miley Legal Group in Clarksburg, West Virginia will work with you to fight for the compensation you deserve and help you to move on with your life. Contact us today for a FREE consultation - 304-326-1800.