Vehicular accidents are never a good sight. Harsh driving, lack of attention or whatever the cause of an accident may be, the consequences can be dire. The magnitude of an accident may be bigger if it involves heavy vehicles such as trucks, trailers or semi-trucks. With the size and weight of heavy vehicles, it is important to pay extra attention when driving. However, there are some common scenarios that can prompt a truck to lose control. One such phenomenon is jackknifing.
A jackknife wreck can cause havoc on the road as multiple vehicles can get caught up in the situation. We will do a detailed overview of jackknifing, the possible causes and ways to avoid it.
Jackknife Meaning in Terms of Truck Accidents
As the name suggests, the term is derived from a jackknife or pocket knife. Jackknifing refers to truck accidents where two parts (cab and trailer) fold at the adjoining point. Put in simple words, either of the two parts moves to one side resulting in a ‘V’ shape.
This puts the truck in an angular position resembling a pocket knife. Compared to car collisions, jackknifing accidents can cause more damage. Therefore, it is important to be qualified for driving a heavy vehicle.
The UAE has several driving institutes such as Emirates Driving Institute Dubai among others to train drivers for handling heavy vehicles.
What Causes Jackknifing?
Unlike the medical conditions that affect driving alertness, jackknifing is more of a human error or negligence. Heavy vehicles, like trucks or trailers because of their enormous size may lose balance rather easily.
Several factors that cause jackknifing in a large vehicle are listed as follows:
- Improper or excessive braking
- Poor road conditions caused by rain, snow or any other reason
- Vehicle equipment failure
- Unsafe driving speeds
- Taking spontaneous turns
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Unqualified or inexperienced truck drivers
- Fatigued driving or driving under the influence of a controlled substance
- Intentional actions taken by drivers
Usually, jackknifing or other accidents happen in a matter of seconds. Vehicles behind the truck may not be able to apply brakes on time. This could affect traffic conditions for long durations. Additionally, drivers should be aware of fast-lane driving rules and other implications to avoid getting involved in any such accidents.
Tips to Avoid Getting Involved in a JackKnifing Accident as a Car Driver
As accidents involving bigger vehicles tend to cause more damage, other drivers on the road should also be careful. Additionally, driving around heavy vehicles requires extra attention. Listed below are some tips to follow to avoid getting in the fold of a jackknifing accident.
DRIVE AT A SAFE DISTANCE
Tailgating refers to driving without sufficient distance between the vehicle in front. This can be dangerous if the front vehicle suddenly stops. It is advised to keep a safe following distance and leave enough space for braking to avoid a collision.
BE EXTRA CAREFUL ON SLIPPERY ROADS OR DRIVING DOWNHILL
Be extra cautious when driving downhill or on slippery surfaces. Reduce the vehicle’s speed to extend the braking distance. This can also be helpful when driving in uncertain weather conditions. Additionally, these rain-driving safety tips can also come in handy under such circ*mstances.
SLOW DOWN WHEN APPROACHING CURVES
Speedy driving or sudden turns can put car safety at risk. When approaching curves, it is advisable to slow the vehicle down. What lies beyond the curve may not be visible on some roads and in case there’s a jackknife wreck or some other obstacle, you will have enough time to apply the brakes by maintaining a slow speed.
ENSURE CAR MAINTENANCE
A properly maintained car is less likely to cause any trouble on the road. Be sure to follow the car maintenance checklist and keep your safety in check.
TIPS TO PREVENT JACKKNIFING AS A TRUCK DRIVER
The onus lies on truck or trailer drivers to drive safely and adhere to UAE speed limits and traffic laws. In addition to this, there are some things trailer drivers can do to avoid jackknifing. Listed below are some preventive measures to prevent jackknifing.
- Frequently watch the mirrors to see if the trailer is swaying or swinging. Adjust the truck’s speed and steering wheel position carefully to stop the movement.
- An empty trailer is lighter therefore, it is more likely to jackknife. Pay extra attention when driving an empty trailer.
- Apply brakes before taking a turn. While smaller vehicles can brake or accelerate during a turn, this can be dangerous with a heavy vehicle.
- If the trailer starts to slide, applying brakes may not be the best option. Instead, take your foot off the brake and follow the instructions taught during your training sessions.
- In some cases, acceleration can help straighten the truck. The pulling force can help straighten the trailer. However, this method wouldn’t work if the front part is shaking.
If you, unfortunately, get involved in an accident or witness one, it is a wise move to inform the police. Additionally, there are some things to avoid after a car accident to help you follow the legal process.
This was everything about jackknifing in heavy vehicles. Reckless driving, inattentiveness or improper maintenance can all lead to a jackknife wreck. The gigantic size of these heavy vehicles makes jackknifing accidents more dangerous.
Luckily, with the aforementioned tips heavy vehicle drivers can minimise the chances of jackknifing. Additionally, it is important to fulfil the requirements to be eligible for driving a heavy vehicle. For instance, the EDI heavy truck driving course is compulsory along with other requirements.
Modern heavy vehicles like the Tesla Semi Truck come equipped with an enhanced traction control system that helps prevent jackknifing. Furthermore, small vehicles also have a myriad of features to make driving safe and comfortable.
Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE if you want to add a vehicle with modern safety features to your car collection.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for information about vehicle-related scenarios and more.
