The problem of jackknifing has plagued tractor trailer drivers for years but now there is more and more technology available which can help the problem.
One new feature is adding anti lock brakes onto either or both of the tractor or trailer as it can be locking wheels which cause the rig to jackknife. The vehicles have sensors fitted which can tell when there is heavy braking and if the wheels are about to lock the sensor will then decrease the braking on that particular wheel. It has the advantage that the braking is still happening and the truck is slowing down but just not so much that the wheel locks up. This is one of the most important additions to a large rig to stop it jackknifing.
In addition, sensors can be fitted to reduce the brake pressure sent to the wheel depending on the weight of the trailer as empty trailers have less traction with the road and are thus more likely to jackknife.
Another type of technology is to add something to the coupling between the tractor and the trailer so that they physically cannot jackknife. This is called the fifth wheel but it does have the problem of limiting the flexibility of the rig when it comes to making a sharp turn. To avoid this problem a device can be fitted to engage and disengage the fifth wheel when needed so that the driver can disengage it when he or she has to make a sharp turn.
If you have suffered serious injuries as a result of an auto accident, please call our Connecticut I-95 accident attorneys at Hastings, Cohan, and Walsh, LLP, at (888) 244-5480 or contact us online today.
