Tractor-Trailer Jackknifes on Maine Turnpike: Why Portland Drivers Should Be Concerned

One moment, you’re driving north on I-95 through York, Maine. The next, an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer jackknifes across two lanes, blocking traffic for hours. This isn’t just a hypothetical—it happened on February 23, 2026, when a jackknifed tractor-trailer blocked the northbound Maine Turnpike near Mile 5 for two hours during a nor’easter.

While this incident occurred in Maine, the dangers it reveals are just as real for Portland drivers. The same factors that caused this crash—sudden braking, adverse weather, and potential equipment failures—exist right here on Texas highways. In fact, Texas leads the nation in trucking accidents, with over 37,000 crashes involving large trucks in 2023 alone.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents devastate families. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent 25+ years fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas. If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle crash, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast—we send preservation letters within hours to protect your rights.

What Happened on the Maine Turnpike?

On Monday, February 23, 2026, at approximately 12:45 p.m., the Maine Turnpike Authority (MTA) issued a travel alert about a jackknifed tractor-trailer near Mile 5 on I-95 northbound. The crash blocked the left and center lanes, creating significant delays for northbound traffic.

Turnpike officials asked drivers to use caution in the area and expect delays. The travel alert was lifted at 2:05 p.m., approximately two hours after the initial report.

The Storm That Set the Stage

This accident didn’t happen in ideal conditions. A powerful nor’easter was battering Maine’s coastal communities, bringing:

• Heavy snow accumulation
• Strong wind gusts
• Blizzard conditions along the entire Maine coast
• Reduced visibility

The MTA had already reduced speeds on the turnpike to 45 mph that morning due to the storm. These conditions made driving treacherous, especially for large commercial vehicles.

“When you combine high winds, slick roads, and an 80,000-pound truck, you have a recipe for disaster. These conditions exist right here in Texas during winter storms and hurricane season. Trucking companies have a responsibility to adjust their operations for weather conditions—but too often, they prioritize schedules over safety.” — Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

Why This Maine Crash Should Concern Portland Drivers

At first glance, a jackknife accident in Maine might seem irrelevant to Texas drivers. But the root causes of this crash are universal—and present right here in Portland:

1. Adverse Weather Conditions

While Maine was experiencing a nor’easter, Texas has its own weather challenges:

• Winter storms that create black ice on highways (remember the catastrophic 2021 Texas freeze?)
• Hurricane season bringing high winds and flooding to Gulf Coast corridors
• Summer heat causing tire blowouts on I-10 and I-45
• Dust storms reducing visibility on West Texas highways

Trucking companies have a legal obligation to adjust their operations for weather conditions. This includes:

• Reducing speeds
• Increasing following distances
• Delaying shipments when conditions are unsafe
• Ensuring proper tire and brake maintenance for temperature extremes

When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for resulting accidents.

2. Jackknife Risks on Portland Highways

Jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous because:

• The trailer swings across multiple lanes, creating a massive obstacle
• Other vehicles often can’t stop in time to avoid collision
• The truck may block the entire highway, leading to secondary crashes

Texas highways see more than their share of jackknife accidents, especially on:

• I-10 (Gulf Coast corridor) – Heavy truck traffic from Port of Houston
• I-45 (Houston to Dallas) – High volume of commercial vehicles
• I-35 (NAFTA corridor) – Long-haul trucks from Mexico
• I-20 (East-West freight route) – Mixed traffic patterns

3. The 45 mph Speed Reduction: A Warning Sign

The MTA reduced speeds to 45 mph due to the storm—a clear indication that conditions were hazardous. This raises important questions:

• Was the truck driver traveling at a safe speed for conditions?
• Did the trucking company pressure the driver to maintain schedule despite weather?
• Were proper safety protocols followed?

In Texas, we see similar situations during:

• Winter weather advisories
• Hurricane evacuations
• Flash flood warnings
• High wind events

When trucking companies fail to adjust their operations for these conditions, they put everyone on the road at risk.

The Science Behind Jackknife Accidents

Understanding why jackknife accidents happen is crucial for prevention—and for building strong legal cases when they do occur.

What Is a Jackknife?

A jackknife occurs when a tractor-trailer skids and the trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab that resembles a folding pocket knife. This typically happens when:

1. The driver applies brakes suddenly
2. The trailer wheels lock up
3. The trailer continues moving forward while the cab slows
4. The trailer swings out to the side

Why Are Jackknifes So Dangerous?

Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents

Based on our experience handling trucking cases at Attorney911, these are the most common causes of jackknife accidents:

1. Sudden Braking
   – Especially on wet, icy, or slick roads
   – Often occurs when drivers are following too closely
   – Can be caused by brake system failures

2. Speeding for Conditions
   – FMCSA regulations require drivers to reduce speed for weather
   – 49 CFR § 392.14 requires “extreme caution” in hazardous conditions
   – Failure to adjust speed is a common violation

3. Improperly Loaded Cargo
   – Unbalanced loads affect vehicle stability
   – Shifting cargo can cause sudden weight transfer
   – 49 CFR § 393.100-136 governs cargo securement

4. Brake System Failures
   – Worn brake pads or shoes
   – Improper brake adjustment
   – Air brake system leaks
   – 49 CFR § 393.40-55 specifies brake requirements

5. Driver Fatigue
   – Hours of service violations (49 CFR Part 395)
   – Drivers pushing beyond legal limits
   – Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times

6. Equipment Failures
   – Tire blowouts
   – Steering system malfunctions
   – Suspension failures

7. Driver Inexperience
   – Inadequate training on emergency maneuvers
   – Failure to recognize dangerous conditions
   – 49 CFR § 391.11 requires proper driver qualifications

8. Overcorrection
   – Drivers reacting too aggressively to minor lane deviations
   – Can cause trailer to swing violently

“Jackknife accidents are almost always preventable. They’re the result of negligence—whether it’s poor maintenance, inadequate training, or pressure to meet unrealistic schedules. At Attorney911, we’ve seen case after case where trucking companies cut corners, and innocent families pay the price.” — Ralph Manginello

FMCSA Regulations That Could Have Prevented This Accident

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established comprehensive regulations to prevent exactly this type of accident. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that can lead to catastrophic crashes.

1. Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

Fatigued driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents. FMCSA regulations limit how long drivers can operate:

Violation Red Flags in This Case:
– The accident occurred during a nor’easter, which likely caused delays
– Drivers may have been pressured to make up time
– Fatigue could have impaired the driver’s ability to react safely to conditions

2. Speed and Safe Operation (49 CFR Part 392)

Violation Red Flags:
– The MTA had already reduced speed limits to 45 mph
– Failure to adjust speed for conditions is a common violation
– Following too closely in poor visibility increases jackknife risk

3. Vehicle Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

Violation Red Flags:
– Brake failures are a leading cause of jackknife accidents
– Tire condition is critical in adverse weather
– Maintenance records often reveal deferred repairs

4. Driver Qualification (49 CFR Part 391)

Violation Red Flags:
– Inadequate training on winter driving techniques
– Failure to conduct proper background checks
– Missing or incomplete qualification files

5. Cargo Securement (49 CFR Part 393)

Violation Red Flags:
– Improperly secured cargo can shift during sudden braking
– Unbalanced loads affect vehicle stability
– Cargo spills create additional hazards

The Legal Implications: Who Could Be Liable?

When a jackknife accident occurs, multiple parties may share liability. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to maximize our clients’ recovery.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding for conditions (49 CFR § 392.6)
• Following too closely (49 CFR § 392.11)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspection (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Hours of service violations (49 CFR Part 395)
• Distracted driving (49 CFR § 392.82 – mobile phone use)

2. The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability:
Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:
Trucking companies can also be directly liable for:

• Negligent Hiring: Failure to properly vet drivers
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failure to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations

“Trucking companies often try to hide behind the driver, claiming they’re independent contractors. But the law looks at the reality of the relationship. If the company controls the driver’s schedule, route, and equipment, they’re likely liable. We’ve seen cases where companies falsify records to avoid responsibility—we know how to uncover the truth.” — Ralph Manginello

3. Cargo Owners and Shippers

The company that owned the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Pressuring the carrier to meet unrealistic deadlines

4. Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding weight limits

5. Maintenance Providers

Companies that service the truck may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Using substandard parts

6. Manufacturers

Truck, trailer, or component manufacturers may be liable for:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty tires
• Design defects that affect stability

7. Government Entities

In some cases, government agencies may share liability for:

• Dangerous road design
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to maintain safe conditions

Real Cases That Show What’s Possible

While we don’t know the specifics of this Maine incident, landmark cases from across the country demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

1. $462 Million Underride Verdict (2024, Missouri)

In a case that sent shockwaves through the trucking industry, a Missouri jury awarded $462 million to the families of two men who were decapitated in an underride crash. The verdict included $250 million in punitive damages against the trucking company.

Why It Matters:
– Shows juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for safety failures
– Demonstrates the potential for massive verdicts in catastrophic injury cases
– Highlights the importance of proper underride guards and maintenance

2. $1 Billion Verdict (2021, Florida)

In one of the largest trucking verdicts in history, a Florida jury awarded $1 billion to the family of an 18-year-old killed in a trucking accident. The case involved:

• Negligent hiring of a driver with a poor safety record
• Falsified hours-of-service logs
• Gross negligence by the trucking company

Why It Matters:
– Shows the potential for nuclear verdicts when companies act with gross negligence
– Demonstrates how falsified records can lead to punitive damages
– Highlights the importance of thorough investigation

3. $730 Million Verdict (2021, Texas)

In Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger, a Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed by an oversize load. The case involved:

• Failure to properly secure the load
• Inadequate route planning
• Multiple safety violations

Why It Matters:
– One of the largest verdicts in Texas history
– Shows how improper cargo securement leads to liability
– Demonstrates that Texas juries will hold trucking companies accountable

4. $160 Million Verdict (2024, Alabama)

In Street v. Daimler, an Alabama jury awarded $160 million to a driver left quadriplegic after a rollover accident. The case involved:

• Defective trailer design
• Inadequate driver training
• Failure to maintain proper tire pressure

Why It Matters:
– Shows how product liability claims can be combined with negligence claims
– Demonstrates the catastrophic consequences of rollover accidents
– Highlights the importance of proper maintenance

“These verdicts aren’t outliers—they’re part of a growing trend. Juries are fed up with trucking companies prioritizing profits over safety. When we present the evidence of negligence, juries respond with significant awards. That’s why we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial.” — Ralph Manginello

What Portland Drivers Can Learn from This Maine Incident

While this accident happened in Maine, the lessons apply directly to Portland drivers:

1. Be Extra Cautious During Adverse Weather

Texas may not get nor’easters, but we have our own weather challenges:

• Winter storms that create black ice on bridges and overpasses
• Hurricane season bringing high winds and flooding to Gulf Coast corridors
• Summer heat causing tire blowouts on I-10 and I-45
• Dust storms reducing visibility on West Texas highways

What to Do:
– Reduce speed significantly below posted limits
– Increase following distance to at least 7-8 seconds behind trucks
– Avoid sudden braking or lane changes
– Be especially cautious on bridges and overpasses (they freeze first)
– Watch for trucks that may be struggling with conditions

2. Give Trucks Plenty of Space

Jackknife accidents often occur when trucks need to brake suddenly. Give them room:

• Never cut in front of a truck and then slow down
• Avoid lingering in a truck’s blind spots (No-Zones)
• When passing, do so quickly and safely
• Never pass a truck on the right

3. Know What to Do If You’re Involved in a Trucking Accident

If you’re involved in a trucking accident in Portland:

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
3. Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, damage, road conditions, and injuries
4. Get the truck’s information – Company name, DOT number, driver’s name and license
5. Collect witness information – Names and contact information for anyone who saw the accident
6. Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters – They work for the trucking company, not you
7. Call Attorney911 immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911

4. Understand the Unique Dangers of Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous because:

• The trailer can swing across multiple lanes
• Other vehicles often can’t stop in time to avoid collision
• The truck may block the entire highway, leading to secondary crashes
• Cargo spills can create additional hazards

If you see a jackknife in progress:
– Brake firmly but don’t lock your wheels
– Steer toward an open space if possible
– Never swerve into oncoming traffic
– Pull over and call 911 to report the hazard

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Us for Your Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we’ve built our reputation on fighting for trucking accident victims. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. Our firm has handled cases against:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Amazon delivery vehicles
• Coca-Cola distribution trucks
• FedEx and UPS trucks
• Major commercial carriers like J.B. Hunt and Swift Transportation

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how insurance companies:

• Train adjusters to minimize claims
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Delay claims to pressure victims into accepting lowball offers
• Deny claims based on technicalities

“I used to work for the other side. I know every trick they’ll use to deny your claim or pay you less than you deserve. Now I use that knowledge to fight for victims.” — Lupe Peña, Associate Attorney

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand preservation of ECM/black box data
• Secure ELD records before they’re overwritten
• Obtain dashcam footage before it’s deleted
• Preserve the physical truck and trailer

4. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

• Obtain complete Driver Qualification Files
• Analyze hours-of-service records for violations
• Review maintenance records for deferred repairs
• Inspect the truck and trailer for defects
• Interview witnesses before memories fade
• Work with accident reconstruction experts

5. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is crucial for:

• Interstate trucking cases
• Cases involving federal regulations
• Complex multi-party litigation

6. Multi-Million Dollar Results

While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

7. Contingency Fee Representation

You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of litigation, including:

• Expert witness fees
• Accident reconstruction costs
• Court filing fees
• Investigation expenses

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Portland, follow these steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Common trucking accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal bleeding
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Burns (in cases involving fires or hazardous materials)

2. Document Everything

• Take photos of all vehicles involved
• Photograph your injuries
• Document road conditions and weather
• Get contact information for witnesses
• Keep all medical records and bills

3. Do NOT Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. They will use anything you say to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney.

4. Call Attorney911 Immediately

Time is critical in trucking accident cases. Evidence disappears quickly:

• ECM/black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD records may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade over time
• The truck may be repaired or sold

Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7 and will send a preservation letter immediately to protect your evidence.

5. Understand Your Rights

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

The Dangers of Waiting

Many accident victims make the mistake of waiting to see how their injuries develop before contacting an attorney. This can be a costly error:

1. Evidence Disappears

• Black box data gets overwritten
• Dashcam footage is deleted
• Witness memories fade
• The truck gets repaired or sold

2. Insurance Companies Move Fast

• They send rapid-response teams to the scene
• They take statements from their drivers
• They begin building their defense
• They may offer quick, lowball settlements

3. Statute of Limitations Applies

In Texas, you have only 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation forever.

4. Your Injuries May Worsen

Some injuries, like traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage, may not show their full extent for weeks or months. Waiting to get legal help can make it harder to prove the full impact of your injuries.

Common Trucking Company Defenses—and How We Counter Them

Trucking companies and their insurers use standard defenses to minimize claims. Here’s how we counter them:

1. “The Accident Was Your Fault”

Their Claim: You caused the accident by cutting off the truck, stopping suddenly, or driving in their blind spot.

Our Response:
– Obtain ECM/black box data showing the truck’s speed and braking
– Analyze ELD records for hours of service violations
– Interview witnesses to corroborate your version of events
– Work with accident reconstruction experts
– Review dashcam footage if available

2. “Your Injuries Aren’t Serious”

Their Claim: Your injuries are minor or pre-existing.

Our Response:
– Obtain complete medical records documenting your injuries
– Work with medical experts to explain the severity of your condition
– Document how your injuries affect your daily life
– Calculate future medical needs and lost earning capacity

3. “We Followed All Regulations”

Their Claim: The company complied with all FMCSA regulations.

Our Response:
– Obtain the company’s safety records
– Review their CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
– Analyze their inspection and maintenance records
– Investigate their hiring and training practices
– Look for patterns of violations

4. “The Driver Was an Independent Contractor”

Their Claim: The driver wasn’t an employee, so the company isn’t liable.

Our Response:
– Investigate the true nature of the relationship
– Look for evidence of control over the driver’s schedule and route
– Review contracts and payment records
– Examine who provided the truck and equipment

5. “You Waited Too Long to Seek Treatment”

Their Claim: Your injuries must not be serious if you didn’t seek treatment immediately.

Our Response:
– Document any immediate symptoms you experienced
– Explain why some injuries don’t show symptoms right away
– Obtain medical records showing the progression of your condition
– Work with medical experts to explain delayed onset of symptoms

The Role of Technology in Trucking Accident Cases

Modern trucks are equipped with sophisticated technology that provides critical evidence in accident cases:

1. Electronic Control Module (ECM) / Black Box

Records data including:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM
• Throttle position
• Cruise control status
• GPS location

2. Electronic Logging Device (ELD)

Records:

• Driver hours of service
• Duty status
• GPS location
• Driving time
• Rest breaks

3. Telematics Systems

Provide real-time data on:

• Vehicle location
• Speed
• Hard braking events
• Rapid acceleration
• Idling time

4. Dashcams

Record video of:

• The road ahead
• Driver behavior
• Cab interior (in some cases)

5. GPS Tracking

Shows:

• Exact route taken
• Speed throughout the trip
• Stops and durations

“This technology is a game-changer for trucking accident cases. It provides objective evidence that can contradict driver statements and prove violations. But it’s only useful if we act fast to preserve it before it’s overwritten or deleted.” — Ralph Manginello

How We Build Your Case

At Attorney911, we follow a comprehensive process to build the strongest possible case for our clients:

1. Immediate Response

• Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries and document your condition

2. Evidence Gathering

• Subpoena ECM/black box data
• Obtain complete ELD records
• Request Driver Qualification File
• Obtain maintenance and inspection records
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and trip logs

3. Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist analyzes the crash
• Medical experts document your injuries and future needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of damages
• FMCSA regulation experts identify violations

4. Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Conduct aggressive discovery
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, and safety manager
• Build case for trial while negotiating from strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial

What to Expect During Your Case

1. Initial Consultation

We’ll meet with you to discuss:

• The details of your accident
• Your injuries and medical treatment
• The impact on your life
• Your goals for the case

2. Investigation Phase

This typically takes 3-6 months and involves:

• Gathering all evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting with experts
• Building your case

3. Demand and Negotiation

We’ll:

• Send a demand letter to the insurance company
• Negotiate aggressively for fair compensation
• Reject lowball offers
• Prepare for litigation if necessary

4. Litigation (If Needed)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit
• Conduct discovery
• Take depositions
• Prepare for trial

5. Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we’re always prepared to take your case to court if necessary.

The Cost of Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents cause devastating injuries that result in significant costs:

Medical Expenses

• Emergency room treatment
• Hospitalization
• Surgery
• Rehabilitation
• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Medical equipment
• Home modifications
• Future medical care

Lost Income

• Wages lost during recovery
• Reduced earning capacity
• Loss of career opportunities
• Loss of benefits

Pain and Suffering

• Physical pain from injuries
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Physical impairment

Property Damage

• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Personal property damaged in the crash

Wrongful Death

In cases involving fatalities, families may recover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship
• Mental anguish
• Punitive damages

Why Trucking Companies Must Be Held Accountable

Trucking companies have a responsibility to operate safely. When they cut corners, the consequences can be catastrophic:

1. They Prioritize Profits Over Safety

• Pressure drivers to meet unrealistic schedules
• Defer maintenance to save costs
• Hire inexperienced drivers to save on wages
• Overload trucks to maximize profits

2. They Exploit Regulatory Loopholes

• Falsify hours-of-service logs
• Classify drivers as independent contractors to avoid liability
• Use shell companies to limit exposure
• Delay repairs until after inspections

3. They Put Everyone at Risk

• Trucking accidents kill over 5,000 people annually
• 76% of those killed are occupants of other vehicles
• Trucking accidents cause billions in economic damage

“Trucking companies have a simple choice: operate safely or face the consequences. When they choose profits over people, we make sure they pay the price. That’s how we create real change in the industry.” — Ralph Manginello

The Future of Trucking Safety

While the industry has made progress, more needs to be done to prevent accidents like the one on the Maine Turnpike:

1. Mandatory Side Underride Guards

• Currently, only rear underride guards are required
• Side underride guards could prevent many fatalities
• Advocacy groups are pushing for federal requirements

2. Automatic Emergency Braking

• Could prevent rear-end collisions
• Currently voluntary, but NHTSA is considering mandating it

3. Electronic Stability Control

• Helps prevent rollovers and loss of control
• Currently required on new trucks, but many older trucks lack it

4. Better Hours of Service Enforcement

• Current regulations have loopholes
• More frequent inspections needed
• Better training on fatigue management

5. Improved Driver Training

• Current CDL requirements are minimal
• More comprehensive training needed on:
• Adverse weather driving
• Emergency maneuvers
• Cargo securement
• Hours of service compliance

6. Stricter Maintenance Requirements

• More frequent inspections
• Better tracking of maintenance records
• Stricter penalties for deferred maintenance

What Portland Drivers Can Do to Stay Safe

While we can’t control how trucking companies operate, we can take steps to protect ourselves:

1. Give Trucks Plenty of Space

• Never cut in front of a truck and then slow down
• Avoid lingering in a truck’s blind spots (No-Zones)
• When passing, do so quickly and safely
• Never pass a truck on the right

2. Be Extra Cautious in Adverse Weather

• Reduce speed significantly below posted limits
• Increase following distance to at least 7-8 seconds behind trucks
• Avoid sudden braking or lane changes
• Be especially cautious on bridges and overpasses

3. Watch for Signs of Unsafe Trucks

• Leaning trailers (may indicate unbalanced load)
• Smoke from brakes (may indicate brake failure)
• Wobbling trailers (may indicate tire or suspension issues)
• Missing or damaged underride guards

4. Report Unsafe Trucks

If you see an unsafe truck on the road:

• Note the company name, DOT number, and license plate
• Call the FMCSA safety hotline: 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238)
• Report the location, direction of travel, and nature of the hazard

5. Know What to Do If You’re Involved in an Accident

1. Call 911 immediately
2. Seek medical attention
3. Document the scene with photos
4. Get the truck’s information
5. Collect witness information
6. Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The jackknife accident on the Maine Turnpike is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by large commercial vehicles. While this incident occurred in Maine, the same risks exist right here in Portland on highways like I-10, I-45, and I-35.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, you deserve justice. You deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You deserve to hold the trucking company accountable for their negligence.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent 25+ years fighting for trucking accident victims. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how the other side operates.

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears fast. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Them Get Away With It

The jackknife accident on the Maine Turnpike is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by large commercial vehicles. While this incident occurred in Maine, the same risks exist right here in Portland on our highways and interstates.

Trucking companies have a responsibility to operate safely. When they cut corners, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, you deserve justice.

At Attorney911, we’ve built our reputation on fighting for trucking accident victims. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has 25+ years of experience holding trucking companies accountable. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how the other side operates.

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

Evidence disappears fast. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter immediately to protect your evidence.

Learn More

Want to understand more about trucking accidents and your rights? Check out these resources from Attorney911:

• The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
• Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
• The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
• Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
• I’ve Had an Accident — What Should I Do First?

Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911.

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