What does the term "jackknifing" refer to in trucking?

The term "jackknifing" refers to a situation where the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, creating a V-shape with the cab. This occurs typically during braking or when the traction between the tires and the road surface is compromised, such as on icy or wet roads. When this happens, the trailer can rotate toward the cab, leading to a loss of control. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous as it can cause the truck to flip over or lead to collisions with other vehicles or obstacles.

Understanding jackknifing is crucial for truck drivers, as it highlights the importance of maintaining appropriate speeds, managing braking carefully, and understanding road conditions to prevent the trailer from swinging out and putting the truck and others on the road at risk.