Jackknifing is a common type of trucking accident where the trailer of an articulated vehicle, such as a semi-truck, skids and spins toward the front. The trailer slides and pivots sharply, essentially folding over the vehicle.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, California ranks second in the nation for fatal truck accidents. Commercial vehicles, like articulated trucks, are extremely heavy, often carrying up to 10,000 pounds or more of inventory and materials. The weight and size of these vehicles contribute to the severity of this type of crash.

During a jackknifing accident, the truck driver loses control of the vehicle. The trailer can swing across the road, causing multi-car collisions resulting in severe property damage, catastrophic injuries, and loss of life.