Jackknife Truck Accident in Odessa

Odessa sees 1,600+ truck crashes every year on I-20 and US-385. 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 Odessa

*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 Odessa

  • 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

Odessa Truck Accident Statistics

1,600+

Truck crashes per year

42

Fatalities annually

125,000

Population

Most Dangerous Corridors in Odessa

The highways with the most truck accidents in Odessa include I-20, US-385, Loop 338, SH-191. These corridors see heavy commercial traffic from oil & gas, oilfield trucking, energy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jackknife Truck Accidents in Odessa

How many jackknife truck accidents happen in Odessa each year?
Odessa sees approximately 1,600 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-20, US-385, Loop 338, where oil & gas and oilfield trucking traffic is heavy.
What should I do after a jackknife truck accident in Odessa?
After a jackknife truck accident in Odessa, 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. Odessa is in Ector County, and Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for filing claims.
How much is my Odessa jackknife truck accident case worth?
Jackknife Truck Accidents in Odessa 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-20 often have higher settlements due to commercial insurance policies and potential FMCSA violations.
What are common causes of jackknife truck accidents in Odessa?
jackknife truck accidents in Odessa are often caused by Sudden braking on slippery roads, Improper weight distribution or overloaded cargo, Taking curves too fast. The heavy commercial traffic from oil & gas and oilfield trucking on corridors like I-20 and US-385 increases the risk of these accidents.
Do I need a lawyer for a jackknife truck accident in Odessa?
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 Odessa see the most jackknife truck accidents?
The most dangerous highways for jackknife truck accidents in Odessa include I-20, US-385, Loop 338. These corridors see heavy commercial traffic from oil & gas, oilfield trucking, energy, increasing the risk of these accidents.
What is the average settlement for a jackknife truck accident in Odessa?
Average settlements for jackknife truck accidents in Odessa 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 Odessa Case Review

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

Call (469) 947-7584 for Free Review