A recent tractor-trailer crash on the New Jersey Turnpike has once again highlighted the dangers of large commercial vehicles on high-traffic roadways. The accident occurred near Exit 16E at the toll plaza on the eastern spur, where the truck overturned, trapping the driver inside. Emergency responders worked to extract the driver as lanes leading to the I-495/Lincoln Tunnel remained blocked for hours. The crash caused extensive delays, backing up traffic as far as Secaucus Junction and forcing drivers to seek alternate routes to New York City via the George Washington Bridge and Holland Tunnel.

This accident is one of many serious truck crashes reported on New Jersey highways in recent years. With major trucking routes such as the New Jersey Turnpike, I-78, and I-287 handling high volumes of commercial traffic, the risk of overturned trucks, multi-vehicle pileups, and jackknife accidents remains a serious concern. Understanding why truck accidents occur, the impact on drivers, and what legal options exist can help victims and their families seek justice.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Cherry Hill New Jersey

Trucks operate under conditions different from standard passenger vehicles. Their size, weight, and braking distance make them more vulnerable to certain accidents, especially in high-traffic areas like the Turnpike.

• Driver fatigue truck. Drivers often operate on tight schedules, leading to long hours on the road. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but violations still occur, increasing the likelihood of drowsy driving accidents.
• Speeding and reckless driving. Many commercial drivers attempt to meet delivery deadlines by speeding, which reduces reaction time. Large trucks require more distance to stop, making sudden traffic slowdowns particularly dangerous. 
• Improperly loaded cargo. Uneven or overloaded trailers can cause trucks to overturn, especially on sharp turns or when making sudden stops. Cargo spills create additional hazards for other motorists.
• Mechanical failures and poor maintenance. Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and transmission failures are common causes of truck crashes. Routine maintenance is legally required, but negligent trucking companies may cut corners.
• Congested roadways and sudden lane changes. The New Jersey Turnpike is one of the busiest trucking corridors in the country, with commercial and commuter traffic merging frequently. Trucks making sudden lane shifts in tight spaces increase the risk of collisions with smaller vehicles.

When drivers fail to account for blind spots or make aggressive maneuvers, the likelihood of multi-vehicle crashes rises, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Injuries and Fatalities in Truck Accidents

The overturned truck in Secaucus left the driver trapped, requiring specialized emergency crews for extraction. While the full extent of injuries was not disclosed, accidents of this nature often result in serious or life-threatening harm.

Common truck accident injuries include:

• Head trauma and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from high-impact crashes;
• Spinal cord injuries lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues;
• Broken bones and internal organ damage due to the force of a collision;
• Severe burns or lacerations from fuel spills or cargo fires.

For victims involved in truck accidents, recovery can take months or even years, leaving them unable to work and facing overwhelming medical bills.

Liability in New Jersey Truck Accidents

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complicated, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the crash. The truck driver may be at fault if reckless driving, fatigue, or impairment contributed to the accident. In some cases, the trucking company can be held accountable for failing to follow safety regulations, pressuring drivers to exceed legal hours, or neglecting proper vehicle maintenance. If a mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes or defective tires, plays a role, the manufacturer may be responsible. Additionally, cargo loaders could be liable if improperly secured freight caused the truck to overturn. Victims may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, but when trucking companies or insurers attempt to minimize liability, legal action may be necessary to secure fair financial recovery.

Understanding Your Rights After a Cherry Hill Truck Accident

Truck crashes, like the recent Secaucus accident, leave lasting consequences for victims, commuters, and their families. These accidents often involve significant injuries and financial losses, whether due to driver error, mechanical failure, or unsafe road conditions.

Injured individuals may have legal options to seek compensation and hold responsible parties accountable. With highways like the New Jersey Turnpike seeing a steady flow of commercial traffic, ensuring that trucking companies and drivers follow safety regulations is critical in preventing future tragedies.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a New Jersey Truck Accident Today

Truck accidents on New Jersey highways can leave victims with long-term injuries, costly medical bills, and an unsustainable financial situation. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision involving a commercial truck, you may be able to recover monetary damages designed to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Petrillo & Goldberg Law, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases and know what it takes to hold negligent trucking companies and reckless drivers accountable. Call 856.486.4343 today to discuss your case and explore your options.