New Jersey Trucking Accidents
Trucking accidents comprise an inordinate number of highway fatalities across the nation. The roadways of New Jersey are no exception. In 2007 alone, there were 46 tractor-trailers involved in 43 crashes that resulted in 45 fatalities.
Although there has been some decline in accident fatalities involving tractor-trailers since then, there is not much hope that the downward trend will continue, partially due to the increased numbers of much smaller and more ecology friendly vehicles. These vehicles are more likely to be unnoticed by the driver of a large truck or tractor trailer, especially when in the blind spot, or ‘no zone’ areas of these large trucks.
New Jersey, with its congested highways, dense traffic in and out of New York City and Philadelphia, and our prime location on the Boston to Washington corridor, will likely remain a danger zone for these truck related injuries and deaths.
Keeping in mind the precautions to take when in the company of these large trucks on the road; a good automobile driver might be able to minimize the chances that he will be involved in such an accident, but some simply cannot be avoided by the driver of the automobile. Likewise, truckers can also be frequently heard to complain how the drivers of cars do not understand how difficult it can be for a truck driver to see a car in his blind spot, how dangerous it is to pass a truck on the right where he cannot see you, or how long the stopping distance is of a heavily laden tractor-trailer. These accidents can and will occur and it is of utmost importance for both the driver of the automobile and the driver of the truck to know what to do if you are involved in such an accident.
Drivers and passengers involved in these accidents are entitled to have their medical bills paid, their lost wages compensated, collision damage repaired, and may pursue a recovery for physical injuries, disability and impairment, and pain and suffering. The truck driver may also be entitled to Workers Compensation Benefits for injuries sustained.
Truck accident victims often do not receive fair compensation for injuries and lost wages as insurance companies always try to pay out as little as possible to keep their profits high.
If you are involved in a truck related accident:
- If you are injured, accept medical treatment transportation to the emergency room. Always permit emergency medical personnel to check our you and all your passengers.
- Make sure you get the names and addresses and telephone numbers of all parties and witnesses to the accident.
- Provide the investigating police officer all pertinent information and a complete version of the accident.
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone other then your own insurance company and your attorney.
- Notify your insurance company of the claim and cooperate fully with them. However, do not give a statement to the other parties insurance carrier without first speaking to an attorney.
- Use your cell phone to take pictures of the accident scene and the damage to all of the vehicles.
For more information or assistance, contact Randolph H. Wolf for a free consultation.
2008 Truck Accident Statistics
- 5,838 Large Trucks and 912 Buses Involved in Non-Fatal Crashes
- 2,600 Large Trucks and 467 Buses Involved in Injury Crashes
- 3,744 Injuries in Crashes Involving Large Trucks and 1,058 Injuries in Crashes Involving Buses
- 3,238 Large Trucks and 445 Buses Involved in Towaway Crashes
- 154 Large Trucks and 8 Buses Involved in Hazmat (HM) Placard Crashes
*Stats from Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS)
If you are involved in a truck accident, it is imperative you immediately begin to lay the groundwork for the recovery you are entitled to. Randolph H. Wolf is a skilled truck accident attorney with over 25 years of experience representing victims throughout New Jersey. He will work to ensure you receive all of the benefits provided by law and that you are awarded fair compensation to enable you to return to your normal life as quickly as possible. Call us today at (888)715-9363.
