Play Video
Firm Logo
732-537-8570

Common Causes of Truck Accidents on the New Jersey Turnpike

The New Jersey Turnpike is one of the busiest highways in the nation, connecting major cities, ports, and industrial centers. Every day, thousands of commercial trucks travel this corridor to deliver goods across the East Coast. Unfortunately, with so much heavy traffic and long-distance hauling, truck accidents are all too common, and when they occur, the results are often devastating.

In New Jersey alone, more than 50 commercial truck-involved crashes occur each year on major highway corridors, including the Turnpike, according to state crash data. These collisions often result in severe injuries, property damage, and tragic fatalities.

At The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr, we have seen how these crashes can change lives in an instant. Understanding what causes truck accidents on the Turnpike can help you stay safer behind the wheel and know what to do if you or someone you love has been seriously injured.

The Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in New Jersey

Truck Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours under strict delivery deadlines. Even though federal regulations limit how long a driver can be on the road, some companies push their employees to meet unrealistic schedules. Fatigue can slow reaction times, reduce attention, and increase the risk of a serious collision.

A momentary lapse in alertness can be all it takes for a catastrophic accident to occur. Investigations often include evidence from electronic logging devices (ELDs), paper logs, and GPS tracking systems to determine whether a driver exceeded federally allowed hours of service or falsified records to stay on schedule.

Distracted Driving

Distractions are dangerous for any motorist, but for truck drivers operating massive 18-wheelers, they can be deadly. Cell phone use, adjusting GPS systems, eating, or even reaching for an item inside the cab can take a driver’s eyes off the road just long enough to cause a crash. On the New Jersey Turnpike, where traffic moves quickly and conditions can change in seconds, this kind of distraction often leads to rear-end or multi-vehicle collisions.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Large commercial trucks require much more time and distance to stop compared to passenger cars. When a truck driver exceeds the speed limit or drives too fast for weather or traffic conditions, it becomes nearly impossible to stop in time to avoid a crash. Speeding is one of the most frequent contributing factors in truck accidents along the Turnpike, especially in congested zones near interchanges and toll areas.

Improperly Loaded or Overloaded Trucks

Cargo that isn’t properly secured can shift during transport, throwing off the balance of the truck and making it harder to control. Overloaded trailers also place excessive stress on brakes and tires, increasing the likelihood of a blowout or rollover. Trucking companies are required to follow specific loading standards, but when they cut corners to save time or money, everyone on the road is put at risk.

Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance

Every commercial vehicle must undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Brake failures, tire blowouts, steering issues, and lighting problems are all examples of mechanical issues that can lead to accidents if neglected. In some cases, liability may extend beyond the driver to include the trucking company or even a third-party maintenance contractor.

Weather and Road Conditions

New Jersey’s changing weather can create hazardous driving conditions, especially on major highways like the Turnpike. Rain, fog, or icy patches can reduce visibility and traction, making it harder for trucks to maintain control. Drivers are expected to adjust their speed and following distance during poor weather, but when they fail to do so, serious accidents can occur.

Driving Under the Influence

While less common, some truck drivers operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medication that affects alertness. Even small amounts of impairment can have devastating consequences when operating an 80,000-pound commercial vehicle (at or near maximum legal load) at highway speeds.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Truck Accident?

Once a crash occurs, the next question is: who can be held responsible?

Determining fault in a truck accident can be more complex than in a typical passenger vehicle crash. Multiple parties may share responsibility, including:

  • The truck driver, for negligent or reckless driving.
  • The trucking company, for poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or pushing drivers to break safety regulations.
  • The cargo loader, for failing to secure freight properly.
  • The maintenance provider, for neglecting essential vehicle repairs.
  • The truck or parts manufacturer, if a mechanical defect contributed to the crash.

An experienced New Jersey truck accident attorney can investigate the evidence (including driver logs, ELD data, maintenance records, and black box reports) to identify every liable party and pursue the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After Being Hit by a Truck on the New Jersey Turnpike

If you’ve been hit by a commercial truck or involved in a collision with one, your safety and health come first. Here are a few key steps to take:

  • Call 911 and report the crash immediately.
  • Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries take time to appear.
  • Document the scene by taking photos or videos if possible.
  • Collect driver and witness information, including license plate and insurance details.
  • Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney.

Insurance companies representing trucking firms often move quickly to limit their liability. Before signing anything or providing a statement, it’s best to have a lawyer who understands New Jersey trucking laws review your case.

How The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Can Help

For over 40 years, The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr has represented victims of serious truck accidents throughout Central New Jersey, including Middlesex County, Mercer County, Somerset County, and beyond. Our firm understands the unique challenges these cases present, from identifying multiple liable parties to navigating federal transportation regulations, and we are committed to protecting your rights every step of the way.

We work with investigators, medical professionals, and accident reconstruction experts to build strong cases for our clients. Our goal is simple: to help you recover full and fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and long-term needs.

Speak with an Experienced New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident on the New Jersey Turnpike or anywhere in the state, contact The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr for trusted legal guidance.

Call 732-537-8570 or reach out using our online contact form for a free consultation. Let us help you pursue justice and move forward after a serious accident.

Disclaimer: The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

$500 K

Car Accident With Government Vehicle

$845 K

Commercial Truck Accident

$500 K

School Bus Accident

$1 M

Pedestrian Accident

Accolades

top 100 Awardtop 100 Award
Crime Victim Bar AwardCrime Victim Bar Award
American Association for Justice AwardAmerican Association for Justice Award
Middlesex County Bar AwardMiddlesex County Bar Award
NJ Bar AwardNJ Bar Award
distinguished awarddistinguished award
Brain Injury AwardBrain Injury Award
BBB AwardBBB Award
Play Video
★★★★★
"Mr. Gerr helped me a great deal following a head injury I incurred. He was knowledgeable, competent, kind and reassuring. I highly recommend him."
MORE FIVE STAR REVIEWS