Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyers in Buffalo, NY 

Facing the Aftermath of a Trailer Accident 

It’s a moment no one sees coming. You’re driving down the road, maybe heading to the grocery store or on your way home from work, and suddenly, you’re face-to-face with a massive truck that’s lost control.  

The trailer swings out like a giant blade, blocking everything in its path. Crashes with massive vehicles are terrifying and can turn your life upside down in an instant. If you’re searching for answers or support after such an accident, a Buffalo truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the challenges ahead. 

You shouldn’t have to handle all that stress alone. At Horn Wright, LLP, we understand how tough this is, and we’re here to fight for you every step of the way. 

What’s a Jackknife Truck Accident—and Why Should You Care? 

A massive semi-truck is barreling down the highway when suddenly, the trailer starts to skid. Instead of staying in line with the truck’s cab, the trailer swings out to form an angle—like a partially opened pocketknife. That’s a jackknife trailer accident. And once it happens, the truck becomes an unstoppable force. 

A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Imagine that much weight losing control on a busy road like Interstate 90 or Route 33. The result? Multi-car pileups, crushed vehicles, and devastating injuries. 

Why Do Road Mishaps Happen So Often? 

Our city is no stranger to tough driving conditions. Between snowy winters, black ice, and slick roads, it’s a challenge to drive here even on the best of days. Add giant semi-trucks to the mix, and things can get dangerous fast. 

Here’s what makes the local roads especially risky: 

• Brutal winters. Ice and snow create perfect conditions for trucks to lose traction. When roads are slick, even experienced drivers can struggle to keep control. 
• Lake Erie winds. Those strong gusts you’ve felt walking downtown? They’re even worse for trucks. High winds can push a trailer sideways, starting a jackknife skid. 
• Crowded roads. Highways, like the New York State Thruway, are busy with trucks carrying goods across the state. Add construction zones or rush-hour traffic, and it’s a recipe for disaster. 

When Machines Fail, People Pay the Price 

It’s scary how much we rely on trucks to be in perfect working order. But here’s the truth: mechanical failures are a huge cause of trailer crashes. 

• Brakes that give out. If a truck’s braking system isn’t up to par, it can’t slow down properly—especially on icy or wet roads. A report by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration listed brake failure as an associated factor in 41,000 truck crashes. 
• Bad tires. Worn-out or underinflated tires? They’re a recipe for disaster, making it easy for the truck to lose grip and skid. Unfortunately, commercial tire safety measures are often set aside. 
• Faulty coupling systems. This system connects the trailer to the truck’s cab. When it fails, the trailer can swing out uncontrollably. 

Salt-covered roads and fluctuating temperatures make wear and tear on trucks worse than in milder climates. Unfortunately, some trucking companies cut corners, skipping essential maintenance to save money. 

If you’ve been in an accident caused by poor maintenance or mechanical failure, a local truck accident liability lawyer can help hold the parties responsible accountable. 

Why Regular Truck Maintenance Could Save Lives 

Truck maintenance might not sound exciting, but it’s a lifesaver—literally. Think about it: a massive vehicle needs everything to work perfectly to stop safely. Federal laws require trucking companies to inspect and maintain their fleets, but not all of them follow the rules. 

Skipping maintenance isn’t just careless—it’s dangerous. Here’s why: 

• Brake systems need constant care. Worn brake pads or fluid leaks can lead to longer stopping distances. 
• Tires wear out fast. Truck tires take a beating, especially on rough roads. Replacing them regularly is non-negotiable. 
• Safety inspections catch problems early. Regular checks can find hidden issues, like a small crack in the coupling system, before it turns into a deadly failure. 

When trucking companies cut corners, they’re putting every driver on the road at risk. 

The Devastation that Crashes with Massive Vehicles Leave Behind 

If you’ve been in a crash, you know it’s not just about the crash. It’s about what comes after. Injuries, financial stress, and emotional trauma can haunt you for years. 

Here are some of the most common injuries: 

• Brain injuries. A traumatic brain injury can change your life overnight, leaving you with memory loss, mood swings, or long-term disabilities. 
• Spinal cord damage. This can lead to spine injuries or chronic pain, forcing you to adjust to a completely different way of living. 
• Broken bones. These aren’t just painful—they can take months to heal and might require surgeries or physical therapy. 
• Internal injuries. Damage to organs like your liver or lungs isn’t always visible right away but can be life-threatening if left untreated. 
• Severe cuts and burns. These injuries can leave permanent scars, both physical and emotional. 

And it’s not just about the injuries. Repairing your car, covering medical bills, and figuring out how to recover your lost wages can feel impossible when you’re already dealing with pain and trauma. That’s why filing claims is necessary to seek the compensation you deserve. 

Who’s Responsible for the Chaos? 

Figuring out who’s at fault after a vehicle collision isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, it’s more than one person or company. Here’s who might be liable: 

• The truck driver. Did they hit the brakes too hard? Speed on icy roads? Text while driving? Driver error is one of the most common causes of commercial vehicle accidents. 
• The trucking company. Some companies push drivers to meet impossible deadlines, causing them to speed or skip rest breaks. Others fail to keep their trucks properly maintained. 
• Parts manufacturers. If faulty brakes or defective parts caused the accident, the manufacturer might share the blame. 

Trucking companies must follow strict state and federal regulations. Proving negligence often requires legal assistance from experienced Buffalo attorneys who know the system inside and out. 

What Should You Do After a Commercial Vehicle Collision? 

The moments after an accident are overwhelming. But taking the right steps can make a big difference in protecting your rights: 

1. Get medical help immediately. Even if you think you’re fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Get an MRI as this could be the most important diagnostic tool for your case. 
2. Call the police. Filing a police report is critical to any claim or legal action. 
3. Document everything. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the damage. Save medical records, too. 
4. Don’t admit fault. Stick to the facts when exchanging details with other motorists or people involved. Even a casual “I’m sorry” could be used against you later. 
5. Contact an attorney. A skilled Buffalo personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for fair compensation. 

Why You Need a Local Attorney Who Cares 

Buffalo isn’t like anywhere else. Between our tough winters and crowded roads, truck accidents here come with their own set of challenges. That’s why it’s so important to work with a local attorney who truly gets it. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’re proud to call this city home. We understand the laws, the roads, and the unique factors that make cases here different. Most importantly, we care about you. Whether you’re fighting for compensation for injuries or just need someone in your corner, we’re here to help. 

Contact Us Today for Help After a Jackknife Truck Accident 

With the support of our trusted truck accident lawyers, you’ll have someone fighting to get you justice. Contact one of the best law firms in America today to schedule your free consultation.