Interstate I-95 runs through New Jersey from Burlington County to New York. For a significant portion of the route, I-95 is the mainline of the New Jersey Turnpike. Thousands of vehicles, including large commercial trucks, travel these twelve lanes of highway.
Accidents involving trucks are rarely minor events. Unfortunately, when these massive vehicles lose control or are struck by another vehicle, the resulting injuries are devastating. If you were injured in a collision with a commercial truck, contact our I-95 New Jersey truck accident lawyer. The Reiff Law Firm has assisted people who have suffered catastrophic injuries for over 40 years. Call (215) 709-6940 to schedule a free appointment.
Common Causes for Truck Accidents on Interstate 95 in New Jersey
It is essential to know how and why accidents occur to understand the injuries resulting from truck accidents on New Jersey I-95. This information is also helpful in establishing fault and liability with our personal injury lawyers in Philadelphia in an injury lawsuit arising from a crash involving a commercial vehicle.
Truck Driver Errors
One of the most common causes of any type of vehicle accident is driver error or carelessness. When the driver is operating a large tractor-trailer, the smallest mistake could prove fatal. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents on New Jersey roads. When a truck driver is texting or engaged with their GPS, they are liable to swerve or lose track of the traffic around them. Because of the size and poor maneuverability of a large commercial vehicle, it is exceedingly difficult for a truck driver to regain control or avoid an accident once an error occurs.
Any type of reckless driving, such as speeding, is especially dangerous. As stated above, a truck is challenging to maneuver, and at high speeds controlling or stopping one of these behemoth vehicles is almost impossible. Additionally, trucks have large blind spots surrounding the entire vehicle, so any erratic lane changes or turns could result in a devastating collision with a car or motorcycle outside of the driver’s vision.
Truck drivers are also not immune to driving while under the influence. In fact, because of the long hours a driver spends on the road, they might turn to drugs to keep them awake. While this conduct might ward off sleep, it severely compromises a driver’s physical and decision-making abilities.
Defective Equipment or Trucks
Another cause of truck accidents has nothing to do with the conduct of the driver. A commercial vehicle is a complicated machine, and if a system or part malfunctions, it could result in a catastrophic accident. If a part of the truck is defective, the manufacturer of the vehicle or component could be held liable for the accident. For example, faulty brakes or a defective tire could cause a driver to lose control of their truck. In some cases, the defect should have been noticed during a routine inspection. If this happens, the inspector or trucking company could be held accountable for the defective part.
Unsafe Load Sizes or Unsecured Loads
Tractor-trailers that are not correctly and safely loaded endanger the truck driver and other motorists on the road. When a truck becomes unbalanced, it is much more difficult to control and is prone to flipping over. It is the responsibility of the individuals or company who loads the truck to ensure the cargo is safely stored and secured. The truck driver should also inspect their load before setting off on their route.
Other Motorist
In some cases, a reckless driver will move in front of a truck and require the truck driver to make a quick turn to avoid an accident. Unfortunately, these types of reactions often cause another accident while trying to avoid a collision. Our New Jersey truck accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to determine what parties should be held responsible for your injuries.
Common Injuries Suffered in New Jersey Truck Accidents on I-95
Because of the size of commercial vehicles, the injuries associated with truck accidents are often severe. Some of the more common types of injuries resulting from collisions with a truck are listed below.
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal cord and nervous system damage
- Fractures
- Injuries to internal organs
- Lacerations
- Amputation
- Paralysis
- Wrongful death
Because of the severity of injuries suffered in truck accidents, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Often, the full impact of many of these injuries is not readily apparent. If you are injured in a truck accident, you must follow your doctor’s medical treatment and ensure you keep any follow-up appointments. Our New Jersey truck accident attorney will work with your healthcare provider to fully document the extent of your injuries and link them to your accident.
Who is Liable for Injuries from a Truck Accident on Interstate 95 in New Jersey?
In many instances, truck accidents are devastating events involving multiple vehicles. Furthermore, there might be more than one reason the accident occurred. Our experienced New Jersey truck accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your accident to determine what parties are at fault. Responsibility could lie with the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, another motorist, or another party altogether.
Recoverable Damages from a Truck Accident on New Jersey I-95
In New Jersey, you are entitled to seek two types of damages following a truck accident. The first is economic damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and property damage. Additionally, you could also be awarded compensation for your non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Our New Jersey truck accident lawyers will work to document and prove the harm you suffered in your accident.
Call Our I-95 New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Accidents involving large commercial vehicles are rarely minor events. When a truck crashes along Interstate 95, it is usually devastating. If you were hurt in a collision with a truck, contact our I-95 New Jersey truck accident lawyers immediately. The Reiff Law Firm provides unparalleled and professional representation to victims of catastrophic accidents. Call (215) 709-6940 to schedule a free consultation.
