Truck accidents in New Jersey can cause catastrophic accidents as a result of the considerable size and weight of commercial vehicles. Despite the fact that these trucks play an integral role in this nation’s economy, transporting goods across the continental United States, many people involved in these accidents suffer catastrophic injuries. As such, victims of these collisions may be entitled to compensation for the damages they’ve suffered as a result. Understanding your legal rights is critical to taking the correct steps to protect your claim and improve your chances of a successful recovery.
Truck Accidents in New Jersey Can Result in Severe Injuries
When truck accidents occur, the results can be catastrophic. Due to their sheer size and weight, trucks are some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. If you are injured due to the negligence of a truck driver, you may be entitled to recover compensation. Commercial Truck accidents involve:
- Tractor-trailers
- Box trucks
- Semi-trucks
- Construction vehicles
- Freight carriers
Commercial vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. As such, even collisions that occur at low speeds can be devastating for those in a passenger vehicle.
Drivers in Essex County may find that truck accidents occur on heavily trafficked roadways, including:
- Route 80
- The Garden State Parkway
- The New Jersey Turnpike (I-95)
- Route 280
- Route 46
These commercial truck accidents are common near Newark shipping corridors., Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal freight routes, and major warehouses and distribution hubs throughout New Jersey
How Are Accidents Caused in New Jersey?
A truck accident can happen as a result of a variety of things, including the following:
Poor Judgment
Speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes, making dangerous turns, and following others too closely can cause an accident.
Distracted Driving
When drivers do not give the road their full attention, they may not be able to slow down or navigate the vehicle in time to prevent an accident. Common examples of distracted driving include:
- Setting a GPS
- Texting
- Eating
- Using dispatch communication systems
Impaired Driving and Driver Fatigue
This can include drivers who operate trucks under the influence, are drowsy, or suffer from a medical condition. Non-performance errors are the third leading cause of truck accidents.
Though many may not view driving a commercial vehicle as exhausting, driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck collisions. As such, federal regulations have implemented Hours of Service limitations to ensure drivers receive adequate rest while traveling.
Vehicle Malfunction
When the truck has a defective part or a malfunction on the road, it can cause an accident. Common malfunctions include:
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Power steering failures
- Coupling defects
- Broken lights and signal malfunctions
Poor Conditions
When a road is not maintained or there is inclement weather, accidents can happen as a result.
Common Types of Truck Accidents in Essex County
Truck accidents could happen in a multitude of ways. Some examples of truck accidents can be:
- Head-on collisions
- Occur when a truck and a vehicle collide head-on
- Unfortunately, these are among the most deadly collisions
- Rollover accidents
- When a truck travels too fast around curves or cargo is improperly loaded, the truck may flip over
- Blindspot accidents
- Trucks have considerably large blind spots due to the size of these vehicles, meaning drivers who remain in the blind spots of trucks may be essentially invisible when the truck changes lanes
- Jackknife accidents
- These occur when the trailer swings outward, forming an angle with the cab of the truck
- Underride accidents
- When a smaller vehicle is stuck under the trailer of a truck, it is referred to as an underride accident
What Should You Do After a New Jersey Truck Accident?
If you are injured due to the negligence of a truck driver, you may be entitled to recover compensation. In order to recover this compensation, you should make sure to take the following steps:
- Call 911
- The police can help direct traffic, file a report, conduct chemical tests, and interview witnesses
- Document the scene
- Taking photos and videos at the scene of the accident is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to a personal injury accident
- Make sure to document any damage done to your car, the truck, and any property involved
- Obtain the contact information of witnesses
- Seek medical attention
- If you are involved in a truck accident, you are likely seriously injured
- It is important to go to the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility immediately after an accident.
- This will help ensure your injuries are treated while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries.
- File your claim on time
- In New Jersey, you will generally have two years from the date of the accident to file your personal injury claim
Who Can Face Liability in a New Jersey Truck Accident?
Determining liability for a truck accident in New Jersey is critical, as this ultimately determines who will be responsible for compensating you for the damage you have suffered.
Potentially Liable Parties
- The truck driver
- The trucking or logistics company that employs the driver
- The company responsible for loading the cargo in the vehicle
- Vehicle mechanics and maintenance contractors
- Truck or parts manufacturers
Contact our Experienced New Jersey Personal Injury Firm
In the event you are injured as a result of a negligent truck driver or their employer, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced Essex County attorney with the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell. We understand that these accidents can cause devastating injuries, which is why we are committed to helping you fight for the best possible outcome. When you need help, contact our team today.
