Can I Sue if I Was Injured in a Jackknife Truck Accident in Maryland?

 Posted on September 14, 2025 in Truck Accidents

Jackknife truck accidents are dangerous and often deadly. Just recently, in July 2025, a three-vehicle crash on the Inner Loop of I-495 in Montgomery County left two tractor-trailers jackknifed, one overturned, and lanes shut down due to a fuel spill and major traffic delays. An accident like that can result in significant damages. If you were hurt in one of these accidents, a Boonsboro, MD truck accident lawyer can help you build a claim for your losses.

How Does a Jackknife Truck Accident Occur?

A jackknife accident happens when the trailer of a truck swings out at an angle to the cab, folding the truck like a pocketknife. This usually occurs when the driver loses control. Common causes include speeding on wet roads, sudden braking, poorly maintained brakes, or taking a curve too fast. Improperly loaded cargo can also throw off the balance of the trailer, making it easier for the truck to jackknife.

Because these accidents often take place at highway speeds, the injuries they cause are typically severe. Victims may face spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or permanent disabilities.

Who Is Liable for Damages After a Maryland Jackknife Truck Accident?

Under Maryland Transportation Code § 21-901.1, all drivers must use care on the road. If they do not, they can be held responsible for a jackknife accident. Those at fault may include:

• The truck driver: A driver can cause a jackknife crash by speeding, braking suddenly, or failing to adjust to road and weather conditions.

• The trucking company: Companies can be liable if they pressure drivers to break safety rules or fail to maintain their vehicles.

• Cargo loaders: Improperly loaded cargo can shift and cause a trailer to swing out of control.

• Maintenance providers: Bad inspections or faulty repairs can cause brake or tire failures that lead to a jackknife crash.

• Truck or parts manufacturers: A defective component, such as faulty brakes or steering, can cause the driver to lose control of the truck.

Because multiple parties are often involved in trucking operations, determining liability in a jackknife accident requires a careful investigation of all potential causes.

Seeking Compensation After a Jackknife Accident

If you are hurt in a jackknife accident, you may be able to recover money for medical bills, rehab, lost income, and damage to your vehicle. In serious cases, you may get money for future medical care, lost ability to work, and changes needed for long-term injuries. You can also seek damages for pain, stress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Maryland has a very strict rule: if you are even 1 percent at fault, you may not get any compensation. Because trucking and insurance companies often try to avoid paying, having a lawyer to protect your rights is very important.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Boonsboro, MD Truck Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one was hurt in a jackknife truck crash, a Washington County, MD lawyer can look at your case, explain your rights, and fight for compensation. Attorney Andrew Serafini has over 12 years of experience and personally guides clients through every step.

At Serafini Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe no attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Call 240-744-1600 today to schedule a free consultation. Our phone lines are open 24/7.