New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyer

Tractor-trailer accidents, also known as semi-truck accidents or big rig accidents, can result in serious injuries and significant property damage due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Various factors contribute to tractor-trailer accidents, and the types of accidents can vary.

LLF Injury Lawyers, with a low 29% contingency fee, will fight to get you maximum compensation.

Here are some common types of tractor-trailer accidents:

1. Rear-End Collisions:

Description: Occurs when a tractor-trailer strikes the vehicle in front of it.
Causes: Inadequate following distance, distracted driving, or sudden stops.

2. Jackknife Accidents:

Description: The trailer of the truck swings out to form an L or V shape with the cab.
Causes: Overcorrection, sudden braking, or slippery road conditions.

3. Underride Accidents:

Description: A smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a tractor-trailer.
Causes: Inadequate underride guards, sudden stops, or poor visibility.

4. Override Accidents:

Description: Occurs when a tractor-trailer runs over a smaller vehicle.
Causes: Failure to stop in time, driver fatigue, or brake failure.

5. Blind Spot Accidents:

Description: Accidents that happen when a smaller vehicle is in the blind spots of a tractor-trailer.
Causes: Failure to check blind spots, inadequate use of mirrors, or driver distraction.

6. Rollover Accidents:

Description: The tractor-trailer tips over onto its side or roof.
Causes: High speeds, sharp turns, uneven road surfaces, or shifting cargo.

7. Wide Turn Accidents:

Description: Occurs when a tractor-trailer swings wide while making a turn, colliding with vehicles in adjacent lanes.
Causes: Inadequate signaling, misjudgment of turn radius, or failure to check blind spots.

8. Tire Blowouts:

Description: A sudden loss of tire pressure, which can lead to loss of control.
Causes: Poorly maintained tires, overloading, or road hazards.

9. Cargo Spill Accidents:

Description: The cargo being transported by the tractor-trailer spills onto the road.
Causes: Improper loading, insecure cargo, or equipment failure.

10. Brake Failure Accidents:

Description: The brakes on the tractor-trailer fail, leading to an inability to stop or slow down.
Causes: Poor maintenance, overuse, or manufacturing defects.

11. Improper Lane Change Accidents:

Description: Occurs when a tractor-trailer collides with another vehicle while changing lanes.
Causes: Failure to signal, blind spots, or driver inattention.

12. Drowsy Driving Accidents:

Description: Accidents caused by fatigue and drowsiness in the tractor-trailer driver.
Causes: Long hours on the road, inadequate rest breaks, or untreated sleep disorders.

Seeking Legal Assistance:

Tractor-trailer accidents often involve complex liability issues, and determining responsibility may require a thorough investigation. Victims of tractor-trailer accidents may face severe injuries, substantial medical expenses, and emotional trauma. Seeking legal assistance from a personal injury lawyer who specializes in trucking accidents can help victims navigate the legal process, assess liability, and pursue compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. Additionally, legal professionals can work to hold negligent parties accountable and promote safer practices within the trucking industry.

Tractor-trailer accidents are often more complex than regular car accidents due to several factors inherent to the nature of large commercial trucks. Here are some key reasons why tractor-trailer accidents can be more intricate:

1. Size and Weight Disparities:

Tractor-trailers are significantly larger and heavier than regular passenger vehicles. This size and weight difference can result in more severe injuries and damage when an accident occurs.

2. Multiple Parties Involved:

Tractor-trailer accidents may involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo owner, maintenance providers, and more. Determining liability may require a comprehensive investigation to identify all contributing factors.

3. Regulatory Compliance:

The trucking industry is subject to numerous federal and state regulations. Compliance with regulations related to hours of service, weight limits, maintenance, and driver qualifications can significantly impact the outcome of a case.

4. Black Box Data:

Commercial trucks are often equipped with electronic control modules or “black boxes” that record data such as speed, braking, and other crucial information. Extracting and analyzing this data requires specialized knowledge.

5. Specialized Investigation:

Investigating tractor-trailer accidents typically requires specialized knowledge of the trucking industry. This may involve accident reconstruction experts, trucking industry consultants, and professionals familiar with federal and state trucking regulations.

6. Insurance Coverage:

Trucking companies typically carry substantial insurance coverage due to the potential for high damages. Coordinating with multiple insurance companies and navigating their policies can be more complex than dealing with standard auto insurance.

7. Cargo Issues:

Tractor-trailers often carry diverse and heavy cargo. Cargo-related issues such as improper loading, securement failures, or hazardous materials can complicate the legal aspects of the case.

8. Driver Training and Qualifications:

Commercial truck drivers are held to higher standards regarding training and qualifications. Investigating a driver’s background, training records, and compliance with licensing requirements is crucial in determining liability.

9. Drowsy Driving and Hours of Service Violations:

Long hours on the road and tight delivery schedules can contribute to drowsy driving among truckers. Violations of hours-of-service regulations are common factors in tractor-trailer accidents and require thorough investigation.

10. Complex Damages:

Due to the severity of tractor-trailer accidents, the damages can be extensive. This includes not only medical expenses and property damage but also long-term rehabilitation, loss of income, and emotional trauma.

11. Litigation Challenges:

Tractor-trailer accident cases often involve complex litigation. The legal teams of trucking companies are well-versed in defending against claims, making it crucial for victims to have experienced legal representation.

12. State and Federal Jurisdiction:

Tractor-trailer accidents that occur across state lines may involve both state and federal jurisdictions, further complicating legal proceedings.

Conclusion:

Due to the unique challenges presented by tractor-trailer accidents, individuals involved in such incidents often require the expertise of lawyers who specialize in trucking accidents. These professionals understand the complexities of the trucking industry, regulations, and the intricacies of investigating and litigating cases involving large commercial vehicles. Seeking legal assistance is essential for victims to navigate these complexities and pursue fair compensation for their injuries and damages.

Truck Accidents in NJ