Commercial trucks dominate Routes 1 & 9, the Turnpike, and McCarter Highway every day. These highways connect New Jersey to major distribution hubs, which depend on freight trucks to transport goods efficiently and keep supply chains moving. But when one of these vehicles crashes into a passenger car, the damage goes beyond twisted metal and backed-up traffic—it disrupts lives.
While trucking companies focus on delivery schedules, drivers and passengers in smaller vehicles face a different reality. Medical treatment, time away from work, and a long recovery should take priority after a crash. However, trucking companies and their legal teams can complicate the recovery process for injured victims.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we hold trucking companies accountable when they violate weight restrictions, push drivers past their limits, or send unsafe rigs onto the road. A Newark truck accident lawyer from our firm knows how these collisions unfold and has the experience to take on major trucking operations.
New Jersey Trucking Laws That Affect Your Case
New Jersey enforces strict weight limits, rest requirements, and maintenance standards for commercial truck operations. These laws exist for a reason—ignoring them leads to devastating results. Here are some key regulations the state puts on the trucking industry:
- Truck weight limits. New Jersey law restricts trucks to 80,000 pounds unless they have special permits. Overloaded trucks need more time to stop and place extra strain on braking systems, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Driver hours and fatigue rules. Federal law limits truckers to 11 hours of driving in 14 hours, with required breaks. Pushing past these limits increases the risk of crashes caused by delayed reaction times.
- Inspection and maintenance requirements. The New Jersey Administrative Code mandates regular truck inspections. Worn-out brakes, faulty lights, and bald tires put everyone on the road at risk.
Violations of these laws can help strengthen the legal claims of those injured by trucking companies. A Newark truck accident attorney can help gather the evidence to prove whether a driver, trucking company, or maintenance provider ignored safety regulations.
What Causes Truck Crashes in Newark?
Many factors can contribute to a truck accident. However, some situations and behaviors can especially raise the risk of a crash.
Some common causes of truck crashes in Newark include:
- Driver fatigue. Skipping rest breaks leads to slow reaction times and drifting between lanes.
- Unsecured cargo. When cargo isn’t loaded properly, the shifting weight can cause trailers to roll over or swerve unexpectedly.
- Brake failures. Poorly maintained braking systems increase a truck’s stopping distance, especially in wet conditions.
- Aggressive driving. Speeding, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes put smaller vehicles at risk.
- Blind spots. Large trucks have four major blind spots where passenger vehicles disappear from view.
Each of these factors is tied to a mistake or carelessness when it comes to driver training, truck maintenance, or compliance with New Jersey and federal laws. A Newark 18-wheeler accident lawyer can examine the crash reports, driver logs, and truck maintenance records to uncover any safety violations that led to the collision.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
Because commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger cars, crashes involving them often cause more serious injuries. The size and weight of trucks increase the force of impact, making it harder to stop quickly and causing greater destruction, especially in head-on or rollover collisions.
Some common severe injuries that truck accidents cause include:
- Neck and spinal cord injuries. Whiplash, fractures, and nerve damage impact victims’ movement and daily life.
- Head trauma. Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can affect memory, balance, and cognitive function.
- Broken bones. Arms, legs, ribs, and hips typically absorb the impact in collisions and can be at a high risk of damage.
- Internal bleeding. Organ damage may not appear immediately but can quickly turn life-threatening.
- Severe burns. Some trucks carry flammable materials, potentially leading to fires after a crash.
Under New Jersey law, accident victims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and long-term rehabilitation. A Newark semi-truck accident lawyer can help injured drivers and passengers pursue the full amount they deserve.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Newark
When a commercial truck crashes into another vehicle, the trucking company’s response starts immediately. They send investigators to the scene, review black box data, and gather their own evidence. Knowing what to do right after a crash can also help victims. Here are some key steps to help protect yourself and your potential claim.
- Call 911. A police report documents the crash and can be a key piece of evidence.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask injuries.
- Take photos. If safe to do so, document damage, skid marks, road conditions, and visible injuries.
- Get driver and company details. Ask for the driver’s name, trucking company, and DOT number.
- Avoid early settlement offers. Trucking companies try to close cases quickly, often before victims fully understand the extent of their injuries. Don’t accept any settlements without speaking to a qualified attorney first.
New Jersey follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation could be reduced if the trucking company tries to blame you for the crash. A Newark big rig accident lawyer can help gather the evidence to challenge these claims and fight for you to recover the compensation you deserve.
How a Newark Truck Accident Attorney Handles Crash Cases
The team at Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. has over three decades of experience fighting for New Jersey residents harmed by negligent truck drivers and companies. When you are our client, you can expect the following:
- We know that a strong claim relies on facts. Our team gathers evidence, identifies violations, and builds a case based on New Jersey trucking laws.
- We secure key evidence. Trucking logs, inspection reports, and black box data provide critical details that can support your case.
- We examine all responsible parties. The driver, trucking company, maintenance crew, and cargo loaders may all have been involved in the accident.
- We calculate the full impact of the crash. Our advocates have the training to determine the full value of your case, including compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, and rehabilitation costs.
In New Jersey, injured parties have two years to file a claim. Taking action sooner allows access to stronger evidence and more accurate witness statements.
For Over 30 Years, We’ve Taken on Trucking Companies
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we’ve spent over 30 years standing up for people injured in truck crashes. We know how trucking companies operate and what it takes to hold them accountable.
After a truck crash leaves you with medical bills, lost wages, or disruptive injuries, a Newark truck accident lawyer from our firm is ready to help.
Contact Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. today for a free consultation.
Resources:
49 CFR 395.3, link.