From Skid to Safety
Jackknifing is a dangerous event that puts truck drivers, cargo, and nearby vehicles at risk. With our I-275 semi-towing service, we’ve helped many drivers who found themselves in tricky situations. Jackknifing occurs when the trailer swings out of line and folds toward the cab, locking the truck into a V-shape. It often results in blocked traffic and extensive vehicle damage.
This problem tends to show up in specific situations. After years of responding to incidents on I-275, I-96, I-94 and other motorways, we’ve seen the same triggers appear again and again. Here’s what leads to most jackknife incidents and what can be done to keep your rig upright.
1. Sudden Braking on Slippery Roads
Slamming the brakes on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads can cause the drive wheels to lock up while the trailer keeps moving. The momentum carries the trailer to the side, creating a jackknife scenario.
How to Prevent It:
- Slow down early when weather conditions are poor.
- Use engine braking or downshift gradually when approaching a stop.
- Check trailer brakes frequently to ensure proper balance.
Consistent traction control is the best defense here.
2. Empty or Lightly Loaded Trailers
An empty trailer offers less traction. Without a proper load to weigh it down, the trailer is more likely to swing out of control when making sudden moves or driving through turns.
Prevention Tips:
- Drive cautiously when hauling light or no load.
- Take extra care when maneuvering on slick surfaces.
- Ease into turns and avoid hard stops.
Trailer weight affects stability more than most people realize.
3. Speeding Through Curves and Turns
Taking a curve too quickly puts stress on the connection between the cab and trailer. The momentum shift can cause the trailer to whip around and break alignment.
Best Practices:
- Reduce speed before entering a curve.
- Pay attention to curve warning signs.
- Watch the mirrors for signs the trailer is beginning to sway.
This type of incident can often be avoided by planning the turn in advance.
What to Do If You Start to Jackknife
If the trailer begins to swing out, acting fast matters:
- Ease off the accelerator, don’t brake suddenly.
- Steer with the direction of the skid to regain control.
- Avoid sudden corrections that worsen the angle.
Quick thinking and measured inputs can prevent a minor slide from becoming a major crash.
Boulevard & Trumbull Towing: I-275 Semi-Towing You Can Count On
At Boulevard & Trumbull Towing, our I-275 semi-towing team has responded to countless jackknife calls on the interstate. We know how fast these events escalate and how much damage they cause. That’s why our I-275 semi-towing crews are always on alert, ready to assist when a rig needs recovery.
We cover the full length of I-275, arriving quickly with the equipment needed for heavy-duty recovery. Our I-275 semi-towing service is built for the toughest situations: roadside, off-ramp, or blocking lanes. Whether your truck’s jackknifed or simply stalled, our I-275 semi-towing team is ready to tow and recover without delay.
Trust Boulevard & Trumbull Towing for fast, capable, and reliable I-275 semi-towing. We’re here to keep drivers moving and the highway clear.
FAQ
What is jackknifing in a truck?
Jackknifing happens when the trailer of a truck swings out and folds toward the cab, forming a sharp angle. It usually results from a loss of control during braking or turning.
Can a truck recover once it starts to jackknife?
Yes, but only with quick and correct action. Easing off the accelerator and steering in the direction of the skid may help realign the vehicle.
Why do empty trailers lose control more easily?
Empty trailers have less weight pressing down on the tires, which reduces traction. This makes them more likely to slide or sway on the road.
Is jackknifing more common in bad weather?
Yes. Rain, snow, and ice reduce traction, increasing the chance that a trailer will swing out of position during braking or turning.
What should a driver do immediately after a jackknife incident?
The driver should turn on hazard lights, check for injuries, and contact emergency services if needed. Once safe, recovery assistance should be called.
Are automatic braking systems helpful in preventing jackknifing?
They can help by reducing the chance of wheel lockup, but they are not a substitute for proper speed control and cautious driving.