Contact Us337-232-1934
Being in a jackknife accident can be devastating and potentially fatal. These accidents can be caused by driver negligence, road hazards, or other random factors present that day. It’s important to understand your rights and options for recovery if you’re in an accident, so you can act quickly and secure your settlement. A Lafayette jackknife accident lawyer can help.
The Law Offices of Richard R. Kennedy is home to the fifth generation of Louisiana lawyers in the Kennedy family, dedicated to serving justice across south-central Louisiana. As a trusted personal injury lawyer firm, our local practice is built on a long line of Louisiana lawyers committed to personal injury law.
It’s estimated that there are more than 168,000 truck accidents in the United States every year. In Louisiana specifically, there were 3,277 truck accidents in 2025. As of March, there have been another 267 in 2026. It’s imperative that you understand what to do in the aftermath of a truck accident.
Due to their larger size and the nature of the cargo they often carry, accidents can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. There are many different types of truck accidents that can occur on Louisiana roadways. The type of accident varies based on the situation.
One particularly treacherous type is called a jackknife accident. Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer end of a semi-truck or tractor-trailer folds into the cab from the side. Some of the most common causes of jackknife accident claims include:
Many factors can increase the risk of jackknife injuries on the road, including traffic congestion, driver decisions, inclement weather, and poor road maintenance. Louisiana ranks among the top 10 states for worst roads, largely due to wear and tear from heavy commercial vehicle traffic.
It’s important to consider the full extent of your injuries to understand who is actually at fault and how much you can recover from each party. A Lafayette delivery driver injury attorney can help you build your case and secure full compensation. Even though insurance companies might be hesitant to pay, an attorney can help you work out a fair settlement.
If you’re involved in a truck accident on a Louisiana road, it’s beneficial to contact a local law firm that has experience navigating cases like yours. The Law Offices of Richard R. Kennedy has been serving Louisianans for over 50 years, and we’re proud to help our clients secure the compensation they’re rightfully owed for their losses.
Our local law firm is:
Louisiana is an at-fault state for accidents. This means any party found partially at fault for the incident can be held liable for the damages. Moreover, Louisiana follows a modified comparative fault law, which means injured parties can recover damages even if they’re at fault.
Any fault in an accident can reduce the total amount of compensation you can recover. You also cannot file a claim if you are the majority party at fault.
How much you can recover from a jackknife accident claim depends on how seriously you were injured and your ability to prove it through your claim. A successful jackknife accident claim is built on evidence that establishes fault and your injuries.
You can typically recover economic and non-economic damages through an accident claim to cover direct and indirect losses from the crash. This includes things like disability, loss of quality of life, lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.
Who can be held liable in a jackknife accident in Lafayette can vary from case to case. It’s important to gather as much evidence as possible to demonstrate how the accident occurred and who should be held liable for the damages.
Common at-fault parties in these types of accidents include truck drivers, their employers, other drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or even the city itself. A Lafayette jackknife accident attorney can help you identify all at-fault parties.
You do not have to pay up front to hire a jackknife accident lawyer in Lafayette. Most personal injury lawyers charge a contingency fee, which means they collect their payment as a percentage of your total settlement.
This prevents victims from paying anything out of pocket, letting them focus on recovering the compensation they’re owed for their losses. You can usually discuss pricing with your lawyer before you commit to working with them.
Navigating an injury claim can be complicated, especially if you’re recovering from serious injuries. In the wake of a truck accident, it’s imperative that you act quickly to secure your right to recover damages. A Lafayette jackknife accident lawyer can help you file your claim, negotiate settlement terms, and advocate for you in the courtroom if necessary.
The Law Offices of Richard R. Kennedy has been navigating complex injury claims in Louisiana for over five decades. Over the years, we’ve secured millions of dollars for our clients through negotiations and litigation alike. Our past wins don’t guarantee success for your case, but you can rest assured you’re working with a local law firm that is committed to helping you through your case.
If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, come and visit us at our office in Lafayette to meet with a trusted attorney. Call to set up an appointment with a member of our team, and we can get started on your claim.
*Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits.
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury from a defective consumer good, a product liability attorney with the Law Offices of Richard R. Kennedy can help. Our team will review the details of your case and hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries and losses.
Our law firm serves the greater Lafayette and New Iberia area, and offers complimentary initial consultations. You can discuss your case for free with a product liability lawyer familiar with federal statutes as well as Louisiana consumer protection laws. This insight can give you a better idea of your various legal options.
To learn more about product liability claims and your legal options, contact our law office online. You can also request a free case evaluation by phone.
Fields marked with an * are required
"*" indicates required fields
Great attorney, honest, hard working, you won't find better. Simply excellent.
Very personable service with your needs as their focus. You are not just a number. You are important to them as a person.
I had an awesome experience with Law Firm and I would highly recommend them. Thank You Mr. Richard and your team.
National Association of Distinguished Counsel
The American College of Trial Lawyers
Martindale-Hubbell® (AV Preeminent® Rating)
The American College of Trial Lawyers
The National Trial Lawyers Association
© 2026 Law Offices of Richard R Kennedy • All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer | Site Map | Privacy Policy. Digital Marketing By: 
