Jackknife accidents are some of the most terrifying and catastrophic crashes on Indiana roads. When an 80,000-pound truck folds in on itself like a pocketknife, it can sweep across multiple lanes, trap vehicles, and leave devastation in its path.
If you or someone you love was hurt in one of these crashes, we understand how overwhelming life can feel right now. Medical bills pile up, insurance adjusters push for quick settlements, and the physical and emotional pain is relentless.
We are here to help.
As a Kokomo truck accident lawyer, our job is to take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing. Our attorney, Vaughn A. Wamsley, has seen firsthand how jackknife collisions can change lives forever. We fight tirelessly to ensure you are not left paying for someone else’s negligence.
What Is a Jackknife Truck Accident?
A jackknife accident happens when the trailer of a large truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, like the folding blade of a knife. This often causes the car to skid uncontrollably across the road, striking and damaging vehicles in its path.
These types of accidents can be caused by:
- Improper braking or brake failure
- Speeding on wet or icy roads
- Downhill driving without proper gear use
- Driver fatigue or distraction
- Overcorrecting or swerving suddenly
- Poorly loaded cargo that causes trailer instability
Because of their violent nature, jackknife collisions tend to result in multi-vehicle pileups, serious injuries, or fatalities. If you were hurt in one of these accidents, a jackknife truck collision attorney in Kokomo can investigate the cause and hold all responsible parties accountable.
Common Injuries in Jackknife Truck Collisions
Due to the massive size of commercial trucks, victims often suffer severe or permanent injuries. These can include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Broken bones
- Internal organ injuries
- Severe burns from fuel fires
- Crush injuries or amputations
- PTSD and emotional trauma
Our legal team works closely with medical professionals and life care planners to fully understand the extent of your injuries. We will ensure your claim includes current and future medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term disability where applicable.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Jackknife Accident in Indiana?
Indiana law allows injury victims to pursue compensation from any party whose negligence contributed to the crash. Depending on the facts, one or more of the following may be responsible:
- The truck driver – for speeding, distraction, or driving under the influence
- The trucking company – for negligent hiring, training, or pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines
- A maintenance provider – for failing to inspect brakes or tires properly
- A loading company – for overloading or improperly securing cargo
- The truck or parts manufacturer – for defects in the braking or steering system
As your accident lawyer in Kokomo, IN, we investigate every angle of your crash. Our job is to uncover the truth and make sure no liable party escapes accountability.
What Should You Do After a Jackknife Truck Accident in Kokomo?
The minutes and days after a crash are critical. If you are physically able, taking the proper steps can strengthen your case and protect your health:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and get medical help immediately.
- Document the scene – If it is safe to do so, take photos of vehicle positions, road conditions, and your injuries.
- Get medical attention – Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
- Do not speak to the insurance company – Their goal is to minimize what they pay you.
- Contact our team – A jackknife truck collision attorney in Kokomo can preserve evidence, speak with witnesses, and begin building your case immediately.
Truck companies often send investigators to the scene within hours. You need someone on your side who can level the playing field.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Jackknife Crash?
In Indiana, victims of jackknife collisions may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. We fight to recover:
- Medical bills (past, current, and future)
- Lost income and future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and PTSD
- Loss of consortium
- Permanent disability
- Property damage
If the trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence or willful disregard for safety, we may also pursue punitive damages. These are designed to punish wrongdoers and send a message to the industry.
How We Build a Strong Case for Our Clients
Proving liability in a jackknife truck accident requires an in-depth investigation and the correct legal strategy. When we take on a case, we move quickly to:
- Obtain the police report and crash data
- Secure black box data from the truck
- Review driver logs and hours of service records
- Inspect maintenance reports and trucking company protocols
- Work with accident reconstruction specialists
- Identify violations of state and federal trucking regulations
As an experienced Indiana accident attorney, Vaughn A. Wamsley understands how to use the evidence to build a compelling case. We negotiate firmly but fairly with insurance carriers, and if they refuse to make a reasonable offer, we are fully prepared to go to trial.
Indiana Laws That May Affect Your Claim
Statute of Limitations
In Indiana, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing your right to recover damages. That is why it is crucial to contact us early.
Comparative Fault
Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.
We work hard to dispute any exaggerated claims about your responsibility. Trucking companies often try to shift the blame to avoid paying. Our team knows these tactics, and we counter them with facts and expert analysis.
Why Choose Us to Handle Your Jackknife Truck Accident Claim?
Not all personal injury attorneys specialize in handling complex truck accident litigation. These cases require a deep understanding of federal trucking laws, commercial insurance policies, and the unique mechanics of large vehicle crashes. Here is what sets our team apart:
- We understand federal trucking regulations – including hours-of-service, cargo securement, and maintenance compliance.
- We know how to uncover hidden evidence – such as missing logbooks or altered driving records.
- We work with experienced specialists – including accident reconstructionists and medical experts.
- We treat our clients like family – with open communication, honest answers, and strong support every step of the way.
Our attorney, Vaughn A. Wamsley, is known throughout Indiana for his tenacious advocacy and client-focused approach. We are not afraid to take on large trucking companies and their insurers—and we do not settle for less than you deserve.
FAQ: Jackknife Truck Accidents in Indiana
How common are jackknife accidents in Indiana?
While exact numbers vary year to year, Indiana consistently sees hundreds of significant truck accidents annually. Jackknife crashes are more prevalent in poor weather conditions or on high-speed highways, such as U.S. 31 and I-65.
Can I sue if a loved one was killed in a jackknife crash?
Yes. Indiana law allows surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim. You may be eligible for compensation related to funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
Do I need to prove the truck driver was negligent?
Yes, liability must be established. We do this by gathering crash scene evidence, reviewing driver behavior, obtaining logbooks, and using experts to analyze what went wrong.
What if multiple vehicles were involved in the jackknife accident?
In multi-vehicle collisions, liability can be complex. We will examine every vehicle’s role, speak with witnesses, and determine who is legally responsible.
Will the truck driver’s employer also be liable?
Often, yes. Trucking companies may be held liable for the actions of their drivers under the legal doctrine of “respondeat superior.” They may also face liability for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Possibly. Under Indiana’s comparative fault rules, you can recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Speak to a Kokomo Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you care about was hurt in a jackknife accident in Kokomo or anywhere in Indiana, you do not have to face this alone. You deserve answers, accountability, and compensation for the harm you have suffered.
We offer free consultations and do not charge any legal fees unless we successfully represent you in your case. Let us review your situation, explain your rights, and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
Call today to speak with a Kokomo truck accident lawyer you can trust. Our team is ready to help you move forward.
