Common Causes of Jackknife Truck Accidents in Jackson, MS

A jackknife truck accident in Jackson, MS isn’t just a traffic jam—it’s often a life-changing event. These crashes happen when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle from the cab, usually during a sudden stop or loss of control. The result? Road closures, wrecked vehicles, and serious injuries.

With major interstates like I-20, I-55, and Highway 49 running through Jackson, it’s no surprise that jackknife accidents happen here more often than most people realize. Let’s take a look at what causes them—and how they can be prevented.

1. Sudden or Hard Braking

Tractor-trailers are massive and take a long time to stop. If a truck driver slams on the brakes too quickly—especially on a slick road—the trailer can skid and swing out of line, causing a jackknife. In Jackson, traffic on I-20 and downtown surface streets can stop suddenly, making this a common risk.

2. Slippery Roads

Rain and ice are major culprits in jackknife accidents. Wet roads reduce traction, which makes it harder for truck tires to grip the pavement. This is especially dangerous on bridges, overpasses, and around sharp turns near Lakeland Drive or Woodrow Wilson Avenue. For more on road safety and conditions in Mississippi, visit the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

3. Speeding

Driving too fast—especially on busy stretches like County Line Road or The Stack interchange—can easily lead to disaster. The faster a truck is moving, the harder it is to stop safely, increasing the risk of losing control and jackknifing.

4. Driver Fatigue

Tired drivers are dangerous drivers. Long-haul truckers often work long shifts and may not take proper rest breaks. When a driver is drowsy or unfocused, reaction times slow down, and that can spell disaster—especially in stop-and-go traffic through Downtown Jackson or on Highway 80.

5. Equipment Failures

Sometimes it’s not the driver—it’s the truck. Worn-out brakes, bald tires, or a malfunctioning trailer hitch can all contribute to a jackknife accident. In many cases, these issues point to negligent truck maintenance by the trucking company. For national trucking safety guidelines and regulations, check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

6. Improperly Loaded Cargo

If cargo isn’t properly balanced or secured, it can shift during transit—especially when taking curves or making sudden stops. This makes the trailer unstable and increases the chances of a jackknife. This is a risk on busy routes near Jackson’s warehouse districts or shipping centers.

Why This Matters in Jackson

Jackson sits at a crossroads of Mississippi’s busiest trucking routes. With daily commercial traffic and unpredictable weather, drivers in the area are at higher risk for jackknife accidents than in many other parts of the state.

What to Do After a Jackknife Truck Accident in Jackson, MS

If you’ve been involved in a jackknife crash:

• Call 911 and get medical help.
• Take photos of the scene if it’s safe to do so.
• Get witness info and file a police report.
• Don’t talk to insurance adjusters until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.

The Diaz Law Firm: Expert Truck Accident Injury Claims in Jackson, MS

If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident, including jackknife collisions, in Jackson, MS, the Diaz Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal process to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Trucking companies act fast to protect themselves—don’t wait to protect your rights.

We offer a free case evaluation to answer your questions and assess your claim’s potential. Contact us today online or call (601) 607-3456 to schedule your complimentary consultation and explore your legal options with a dedicated Jackson truck accident attorney.