A jackknife truck accident can happen in seconds and leave lasting damage behind. These crashes often involve large commercial trucks losing control, causing the trailer to swing across lanes and strike other vehicles.
At Crown and Stone Law, P.C., we help people across California understand their rights and take steady steps forward after a jackknife truck crash. These cases often involve powerful trucking companies, multiple vehicles, and serious injuries.
We focus on careful investigation and clear communication so you know where you stand from the start. Many clients tell us they feel calmer once they speak with us. As Marquise Lewis shared, “When I spoke with Avi, I immediately felt that ease. He was patient and reassuring.”
We understand how unsettling this moment can be. You may be dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and unanswered questions all at once. You do not have to face that pressure alone. Crown and Stone Law is here to guide you with steady support and careful attention to the details that matter.
If you need answers now, we are here to help.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident and Why It Matters in California
A jackknife truck accident happens when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle from the cab, forming a sharp bend across the roadway. This loss of control can block multiple lanes in seconds. Nearby drivers often have little warning and nowhere to go. The result is often a serious multi-vehicle crash.
These accidents matter in California because of the state’s heavy commercial traffic. Major freight corridors like US 101 and State Route 99 carry a high volume of tractor trailers every day.
Routes connected to ports in Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland see even more truck traffic. With this level of activity, the risk of jackknife crashes rises, especially during sudden stops, wet weather, or heavy congestion.
Jackknife accidents tend to cause severe injuries. Passenger vehicles are smaller and lighter than commercial trucks. When a trailer swings across lanes, it can strike multiple cars or force them into barriers. Even drivers who were obeying traffic laws can be seriously hurt through no fault of their own.
Understanding what a jackknife accident is helps explain why these cases require careful attention. The cause is not always obvious, and responsibility may involve more than one party. If you are trying to make sense of what happened and why it had such a serious impact, we are here to help explain it with clarity and care.
Our Truck Accident Services in California
- Jackknife truck crash investigation
- Tractor trailer and semi-truck analysis
- Truck maintenance and inspection
- Weight distribution analysis
- Driver log review
- Brake failure/mechanical issue evaluation
- Police and collision report review
- Witness interviews
- Dashcam and roadway footage review
- Insurance and trucking company communication
- Brain Injury caused by truck accidents
- Spinal cord injury caused by truck accidents
- Amputation injury caused by truck accidents
- Burn injury caused by truck accidents
Why Choose Crown and Stone Law for a Jackknife Truck Accident Case
“I knew nothing about my rights. It was overwhelming. When I spoke with Avi, I immediately felt that ease.” – Marquise Lewis
A jackknife truck accident can leave you shaken and unsure where to start. Many people contact us feeling lost after facing a powerful trucking company and its insurer. We take the time to explain your rights clearly so you understand what matters and what comes next. That sense of clarity often brings relief during a stressful moment.
“His guidance is practical and clear, especially for anyone unsure of what to do in those first stressful moments.” – Sarah Manookian
Clients often tell us that our guidance helped them feel steadier after a serious crash. We explain what steps should be taken early and what can wait. In truck accident cases, early decisions matter. Clear explanations help protect your case and your peace of mind.
“Best attorneys in Hollywood. I called him for a car accident.” – Rebeca Reyna
Reputation matters when the stakes are high. Many clients reach out to us because someone they trust had a positive experience here. They felt supported and respected during a difficult time. That trust carries weight, especially in truck accident cases involving large companies and strong defense teams.
“He always returned my calls. He is a great advocate and I highly recommend him.” – Shirley Rosen
Communication makes a real difference when you are dealing with injuries and uncertainty. Questions come up quickly after a truck crash. We respond with patience and clarity so you are never left wondering where things stand. You deserve to feel informed and supported.
“You guys fought tooth and nail and got me the best possible options.” – Rock Nova
Trucking companies and their insurers often work hard to limit their responsibility. We do not accept that approach. We prepare each case carefully and push for fair outcomes. Clients trust us because we stand firm and protect their interests when pressure builds.
What Causes Jackknife Truck Accidents in California
Loss of Control
Jackknife truck accidents often begin with a sudden loss of control. One of the most common causes is hard braking. When a truck brakes too quickly, the trailer can swing forward and out to the side.
Traffic
This is more likely on crowded highways where traffic slows without warning. California sees tens of thousands of crashes involving large trucks each year, and many happen on busy freight corridors.
Speed
Speed is another major factor. Trucks moving too fast for traffic or road conditions need more distance to stop. Wet roads, downhill grades, and sharp curves increase the risk even more.
Bad Loading
Improper cargo loading also plays a role. When freight is uneven or unsecured, the trailer becomes unstable. A shift in weight during braking or turning can pull the trailer out of line.
Fatigue
Fatigue can make things worse. A tired driver may react late or misjudge stopping distance, increasing the chance of a jackknife.
Technical issues
Mechanical issues matter as well. Brake problems, worn tires, or poor maintenance can limit a driver’s ability to keep the truck under control. In many cases, more than one factor is involved. Understanding these causes helps explain why these crashes happen and why careful review is so important.
If you are unsure what led to your crash, we can help review the details and explain what may have gone wrong with clarity and care.
How Liability Is Determined in California Jackknife Truck Accidents
Jackknife crashes often involve multiple vehicles, which can make insurance disputes more intense. Trucking insurers may try to shift blame or minimize their role early on.
California uses pure comparative negligence, which means each party’s share of responsibility is evaluated based on the evidence. Even if more than one factor played a role, a clear record helps protect your claim.
Liability in a jackknife truck accident often involves more than one party. These crashes are rarely simple. California records tens of thousands of large truck crashes each year, and many require careful review to understand who was responsible and why the truck lost control.
Investigators look closely at the truck driver’s actions. Speed, braking, lane position, and reaction time all matter. California and federal rules set limits on driving hours for safety reasons, and violations can point to fault.
Trucking companies may also carry responsibility. They are expected to hire qualified drivers, provide proper training, and maintain their vehicles.
Get to Know Us
Crown and Stone Law, P.C. is a personal injury firm based in Beverly Hills and serving clients across California. We represent people injured in serious truck accidents with a focus on careful investigation, clear communication, and steady support throughout the case.
Our firm is known for looking closely at the facts. In jackknife truck cases, this means reviewing driver records, maintenance history, cargo loading practices, and roadway conditions. We take the time to understand how the crash happened and why it should have been prevented.
We hold an A plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and maintain an active California Bar license. We are also members of the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and are trusted by clients across the state for our five star reviews and consistent communication.
Direct attorney involvement matters, especially when powerful trucking companies and insurers are involved. When you contact our office, you can expect clear answers, honest guidance, and updates you can rely on. We are available at all hours because serious injuries do not follow a schedule.
Local Resources We Work With In California
- California Highway Patrol
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Caltrans
- California Department of Motor Vehicles
- Port of Los Angeles
- Port of Long Beach
- Port of Oakland
- Cedars Sinai Medical Center
- UCLA Health
- USC Keck Medical Center
- Stanford Health Care
- UC Davis Health
- California Superior Courts
- Statewide CHP Collision Reporting Tools
Get Support Today
A jackknife truck accident can leave you dealing with serious injuries, damaged vehicles, and pressure from trucking insurers. You do not have to face this situation on your own.
At Crown and Stone Law, P.C., we are here to listen, explain your options, and help you feel more steady about what comes next.
If you have questions about your rights or want to understand your next steps, reach out to us today. Your consultation is free, and our team is available at all hours. We are here to support you with clear guidance and genuine care.

