Matthew Mincone | January 26, 2026 | Truck Accidents
Jackknife truck accidents are among the most dangerous types of commercial vehicle crashes on Florida roads. These incidents typically occur when a tractor-trailer loses stability and folds at the hitch, creating a deadly obstacle that can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic in seconds.
Knowing what these accidents are, why they occur, and the injuries they cause is essential for drivers who share the road with commercial trucks in Tampa and throughout the Sunshine State. Here’s everything you need to know about truck jackknifing and the car accidents that can result.
What Is a Jackknife Accident?
A truck jackknife occurs when the trailer overtakes the cab, forming a “V” shape. Sometimes, jackknifing a trailer does not cause injuries or property damage. However, a commercial wrecker truck is typically required to right the vehicle and its trailer.
If the driver totally loses control of their truck and trailer, it may collide with barriers, guardrails, or other vehicles. In severe cases, the truck and trailer can overturn. Jackknifing can be the first event in a crash, or it can result from other issues, such as poor road conditions or the negligent actions of another driver.
Due to the size and weight of tractor-trailers, jackknife accidents can be deadly for all involved.
How Truck Jackknifing Happens
Truck jackknifing can be linked to one or more mechanical, environmental, and human factors. Here are some of the most common causes of jackknife truck crashes:
Sudden or Improper Braking
Hard braking is one of the leading causes of truck jackknifing. When the trailer brakes lock before the cab slows, the trailer’s momentum can push it sideways.
This can be especially dangerous if a driver brakes suddenly in the following conditions or situations:
- Wet roads
- Stop-and-go traffic
- Congested urban corridors
Unfortunately, truck drivers cannot control what the vehicles in front of them do. They may be forced to brake suddenly to avoid a collision with other vehicles.
Poor Road Conditions
Wet roads are a major factor in truck crashes in Florida. Rain reduces tire traction and increases the likelihood that a trailer will skid to the side during braking.
Other hazardous road conditions you might see in Florida include:
- Oil or debris on the roadway
- Construction zones
- Uneven pavement or potholes
Loss of traction is a key contributor to many commercial vehicle accidents. Once a loaded trailer gets out of control, it may be impossible for the driver to prevent a crash.
Excessive Speed for Present Conditions
Just because a driver is traveling at or below the posted speed limit does not mean they are operating their commercial vehicle safely. Driving too fast for the weather or road conditions can increase the risk of jackknifing.
A fully loaded tractor-trailer traveling at highway speed requires far more distance to stop than a passenger vehicle. If conditions change, such as a sudden rainstorm, the driver needs to adjust their speed accordingly. Failure to do so could result in a crash.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Cargo weight and balance play a key role in truck stability. When freight is unevenly distributed or improperly secured, the trailer becomes more likely to fishtail.
Common cargo issues include:
- Overloaded trailers
- Shifting freight
- Incorrect weight distribution
These conditions increase the risk that braking or turning will trigger a jackknife crash.
Mechanical Failures
Sometimes, a jackknife crash is the result of an equipment failure, such as:
- Worn tires
- Defective brakes
- Problems with the steering system
Determining who is at fault when a jackknife occurs due to a mechanical or maintenance issue can be challenging. The driver, the trucking company, and the third-party maintenance provider could all share some of the blame.
Jackknifed 18-Wheelers Accidents on Florida Roads
A jackknifed 18-wheeler poses a unique threat due to its size and weight. Once the trailer swings across multiple lanes, smaller vehicles can be crushed or pinned. Other drivers may have to evade the trailer, leading to secondary crashes. Florida’s busy roads and large volume of commercial truck traffic can create the perfect storm for these types of accidents.
Common Injuries from Jackknife Truck Accidents
Several common injuries can occur during a jackknife crash.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
The commercial driver or occupants of other vehicles involved in the crash could suffer a TBI. Even with airbags and seat belts, sudden deceleration can cause the brain to slam against the inside of the skull.
Long-term effects of a TBI may include:
- Memory loss
- Cognitive impairment
- Brain fog
- Personality changes
Unfortunately, some people never fully recover from a traumatic brain injury and will suffer lifelong effects.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Back injuries are a concern during any type of crash, but there may be an increased risk of these types of injuries during a jackknife due to the amount of energy involved. Spinal cord damage can lead to paralysis and lifelong pain.
Broken Bones
When a trailer sweeps across lanes, vehicles can get pinned against barriers or other cars. This can cause broken bones and internal injuries to those involved. These injuries can be life-threatening.
Psychological Trauma
Survivors of jackknife crashes frequently experience emotional and psychological effects. The mental stress after a collision can disrupt daily life long after a person’s physical wounds heal.
Contact Our Tampa Truck Accident Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
After a jackknife crash or commercial truck accident, picking up the pieces can feel like an overwhelming task. The good news is that help is available. If you need help after a jackknife truck crash, call Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Our Tampa truck accident lawyers can help you get started on your case.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Office in Tampa, FL
Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers Tampa
1925 E 6th Ave Unit 10
Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: (813) 800-0810
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About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL
