Jackknife Truck Accident in Houston

Houston sees 6,000+ truck crashes every year on I-10 and I-45. If you've been injured in a jackknife truck accident, get your free case review.

Average Settlement Range

$100,000 - $1,500,000

For jackknife truck accidents in Houston

*Actual settlements vary based on injury severity, medical expenses, and case specifics

What is a Jackknife Truck Accident?

A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a semi-truck swings outward and folds against the cab, forming a shape similar to a folding pocket knife. These accidents are extremely dangerous because the truck often crosses multiple lanes of traffic, striking other vehicles.

Common Causes in Houston

  • Sudden braking on slippery roads
  • Improper weight distribution or overloaded cargo
  • Taking curves too fast
  • Brake system failures
  • Inexperienced or fatigued drivers
  • Poor road conditions

Common Injuries

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Multiple bone fractures
  • Crush injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Wrongful death

Liability Factors

  • Driver error or negligence
  • Improper cargo loading by shipping company
  • Brake maintenance failures by trucking company
  • Manufacturer defects in braking systems

Houston Truck Accident Statistics

6,000+

Truck crashes per year

150

Fatalities annually

2,300,000

Population

Most Dangerous Corridors in Houston

The highways with the most truck accidents in Houston include I-10, I-45, I-610, US-290, I-69. These corridors see heavy commercial traffic from port traffic, petrochemical, logistics, energy sector.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jackknife Truck Accidents in Houston

How many jackknife truck accidents happen in Houston each year?
Houston sees approximately 6,000 commercial truck crashes per year. While specific data on jackknife truck accidents isn't always tracked separately, these accidents frequently occur on corridors like I-10, I-45, I-610, where port traffic and petrochemical traffic is heavy.
What should I do after a jackknife truck accident in Houston?
After a jackknife truck accident in Houston, prioritize safety: call 911, seek medical attention immediately (even if injuries seem minor), document the scene with photos, get the truck driver's and company's information, and do not speak to insurance companies before consulting an attorney. Houston is in Harris County, and Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for filing claims.
How much is my Houston jackknife truck accident case worth?
Jackknife Truck Accidents in Houston typically result in settlements ranging from $100,000 to $1,500,000, depending on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, and liability factors. Cases involving 18-wheelers on corridors like I-10 often have higher settlements due to commercial insurance policies and potential FMCSA violations.
What are common causes of jackknife truck accidents in Houston?
jackknife truck accidents in Houston are often caused by Sudden braking on slippery roads, Improper weight distribution or overloaded cargo, Taking curves too fast. The heavy commercial traffic from port traffic and petrochemical on corridors like I-10 and I-45 increases the risk of these accidents.
Do I need a lawyer for a jackknife truck accident in Houston?
While not required, having an experienced attorney significantly increases your chances of fair compensation. Jackknife Truck Accidents often involve complex liability issues with multiple parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader). An attorney can preserve critical evidence, deal with aggressive insurance companies, and ensure you don't miss the 2-year statute of limitations deadline.
Which highways in Houston see the most jackknife truck accidents?
The most dangerous highways for jackknife truck accidents in Houston include I-10, I-45, I-610. These corridors see heavy commercial traffic from port traffic, petrochemical, logistics, energy sector, increasing the risk of these accidents.
What is the average settlement for a jackknife truck accident in Houston?
Average settlements for jackknife truck accidents in Houston range from $100,000 to $1,500,000. However, actual settlements depend on factors like injury severity (Traumatic brain injuries and Spinal cord injuries are common), medical expenses, lost wages, and whether the trucking company violated FMCSA regulations.

Get Your Free Houston Case Review

If you've been injured in a jackknife truck accident in Houston, don't wait. Get a free, no-obligation case review from an experienced attorney today.

Call (469) 947-7584 for Free Review