Jackknifes and Other Truck Accidents In Baltimore Common on I-95
Baltimore drivers know that I-95 and other major highways in our area are dangerous, especially when sharing the road with commercial vehicles. Tanker trucks, 18-wheelers, and other big rigs move through the city every day, carrying freight up and down the East Coast. Unfortunately, when something goes wrong, the results can be catastrophic.
Jackknife crashes, rollovers, and multi-vehicle pileups are common and often cause devastating injuries and extensive damage. Our Baltimore truck accident lawyers represent victims and their loved ones in these cases and explain common types of truck crashes on I-95 and steps you can take to protect yourself.
Common Types of Baltimore Truck Accidents on I-95 and Other Highways
The Maryland Department of Transportation warns that truck accidents are a common cause of life-threatening injuries on roads throughout the state. However, they are particularly common on I-95, I-83, and the Baltimore Beltway, which see a heavy mix of cars, trucks, and buses.
When truckers or trucking companies fail to operate safely, serious accidents can happen and endanger other motorists. Some of the most common types of truck crashes include:
- Jackknifes, where a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, impacting multiple lanes;
- Head-on collisions, caused by crossing into traffic or going the wrong way;
- Rear-end crashes, common in stop-and-go traffic and construction zones;
- Rollovers, due to sharp turns and improperly loaded cargo;
- Underride accidents, when a vehicle slides underneath the trailer.
Truck accidents in Baltimore on busy highways and interstates can leave other motorists suffering severe harm. Understanding common crash types can help you take precautions to protect yourself and your passengers.
How Drivers Can Protect Themselves Against Baltimore Truck Accidents on I-95
The Roadway Safety Foundation warns that, considering their massive size, tractor-trailers and other big rigs pose significant risks to motorists, particularly on I-95 and other heavily traveled highways. Follow these tips to protect yourself and your passengers:
- Keep a safe following distance to avoid being caught in blind spots in front of, behind, and on either side of the truck.
- Avoid sudden lane changes, as truckers need more time and distance to stop.
- Pass trucks quickly and on the left, where visibility is better.
- Stay alert in construction and merge zones, where traffic patterns can change suddenly.
- Be cautious in bad weather, since slick roads increase the risk of jackknifes and rollovers.
Taking these steps cannot eliminate all risks, but they can help protect you and your passengers. When a Baltimore truck accident does happen, you have the right to hold those at fault liable for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages you suffer.
For Trusted Legal Help, Contact Our Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents on I-95 and other major Baltimore highways are more complicated than other crashes. Multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, or even a cargo loader, may share liability.
Our experienced Baltimore truck accident lawyers can investigate your crash, determine what went wrong, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. For trusted legal help, call or contact Maryland Injury Lawyers online. Schedule a consultation today.
Sources:
zerodeathsmd.gov/resources/crashdata/
roadwaysafety.org/blog/how-safely-share-road-semi-trucks
