Risks and How to Avoid Them
Jackknifing is a major concern for anyone hauling large loads. It’s dangerous and can lead to serious accidents, especially on highways where traffic moves fast. Knowing how to prevent jackknifing can make a huge difference in road safety. Understanding what causes it and how to avoid it is crucial for every driver, whether you’re experienced or new to towing. I-29 heavy towing professionals often deal with these scenarios, but the good news is that many jackknifing accidents are preventable with the right driving habits.
What is Jackknifing?
Jackknifing happens when the trailer you’re towing swings out from behind and forms a sharp angle with your truck. It’s like folding a pocketknife, and it usually happens when the truck brakes too hard, causing the trailer to push forward uncontrollably. This is common on slippery roads or during emergency stops, which makes I-29 heavy towing a frequent necessity in these situations. Drivers who know the causes of jackknifing can take steps to reduce the risk.
Key Causes of Jackknifing
- Slippery road conditions: Ice, rain, or snow can make it easier for the trailer to lose control.
- Sudden braking: Hitting the brakes too hard, especially if your trailer is loaded unevenly.
- Speeding: Going too fast can cause your trailer to fishtail, increasing the risk of jackknifing.
- Improper weight distribution: When the load isn’t balanced, it can cause uneven force on the trailer.
- Sharp turns: Taking corners too quickly can put stress on the trailer’s connection to the truck.
Preventing Jackknifing
We believe that prevention begins long before you’re even on the road. Proper preparation and cautious driving habits can help you avoid dangerous situations. Here are some strategies we recommend to prevent jackknifing:
1. Load Your Trailer Properly
Distribute the weight evenly across your trailer. Putting too much weight on the rear can make the trailer more likely to sway. This can lead to jackknifing. Our operators often help trucks that didn’t have balanced loads. Avoid becoming one of them.
2. Avoid Sudden Braking
Always anticipate stops in advance. Don’t slam on your brakes unless it’s an emergency. Slowing down gradually will give your trailer time to adjust and prevent it from pushing forward. This is one of the most important habits to prevent jackknifing.
3. Use Lower Speeds in Poor Conditions
When the weather turns bad, reduce your speed. Wet or icy roads make it easy to lose control of your trailer. Driving slower gives you more time to react and helps prevent the trailer from fishtailing.
Key Tips for Safe Driving:
- Check your mirrors frequently: Make sure your trailer is tracking properly behind your vehicle.
- Avoid distractions: Stay focused on the road, especially in high-risk areas.
- Use engine brakes when necessary: Instead of braking hard, use your engine’s braking power to slow down.
What To Do If Your Trailer Starts To Jackknife
Despite your best efforts, there might be times when jackknifing begins. In those moments, stay calm. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Ease off the brakes: Release the brake to regain traction. Hard braking is what triggers the jackknife in most cases.
- Steer gently: Keep your steering smooth to avoid worsening the angle between your truck and trailer.
- Reduce speed: Gradually slow down without slamming the brakes.
Call Benefiel for All Your I-29 Heavy Towing Needs
Even with all the precautions in place, accidents happen. If your truck jackknifes, you’ll need professional -29 heavy towing assistance. We at Benefiel Truck Repair & Towing are always ready to help with I-29 heavy towing services. Our team responds quickly and knows how to handle large rigs. Day or night, you can count on us for reliable I-29 heavy towing whenever you need it. Trust us to get you back on the road as soon as possible. Our experience with I-29 heavy towing ensures that we can manage even the toughest situations.
