Large commercial trucks dominate highways across New Jersey, transporting goods while sharing roads with passenger vehicles. When these massive vehicles collide with cars, the results can be devastating. Injuries from truck accidents often require extensive medical treatment, time away from work, and life-altering adjustments for those involved.
Pursuing a truck accident claim requires knowledge of federal and state regulations that govern the trucking industry. Our South Jersey truck accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC bring years of experience representing clients who have been injured in collisions with commercial vehicles. Our legal team investigates each case thoroughly, working to hold negligent parties accountable while seeking fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain.
Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its 2023 traffic safety data report. While the overall number of large truck fatalities declined slightly from the previous year, there were still 5,472 deaths, averaging about 15 people per day. In addition, not every truck accident results in a fatality—153,452 people were injured in large truck crashes in 2023, which equates to roughly 420 injuries per day.
Truck accidents differ from typical car collisions due to several factors. Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, generating tremendous force on impact, which often results in more severe injuries for occupants of passenger vehicles. Moreover, trucking companies and drivers are subject to federal regulations covering driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. Violations of these rules can contribute to accidents and may play a critical role in determining liability in legal claims.
South Jersey experiences frequent truck accidents due to major interstate corridors like I-295 and the New Jersey Turnpike, carrying heavy commercial traffic between Philadelphia and New York. The region’s position as a critical logistics hub, combined with dense population areas, creates dangerous conditions. High traffic volumes, driver fatigue on long hauls, and complex interchanges near landmarks like the Atlantic City casinos, the Walt Whitman Bridge, and Cherry Hill Mall contribute to elevated accident rates. Weather conditions and aging infrastructure further increase risks.
The New Jersey Turnpike experiences high accident rates due to heavy traffic volume and commercial truck presence. While it ranks among the more dangerous roads in the region, other highways also see significant crashes. Accident severity often depends on factors like weather conditions, traffic density, and driver behavior rather than the road itself.
Interstate 295 sees substantial crash numbers throughout South Jersey due to its role as a major bypass route. The highway carries heavy commercial truck traffic alongside commuter vehicles, creating dangerous conditions. Interchanges and merging zones present particular hazards where vehicles enter and exit at varying speeds. Construction projects and lane closures frequently contribute to accidents along this corridor. The mixing of local and through traffic increases collision potential, especially during peak travel times. In December 2025, a van hit the back of a tractor-trailer, crushing the entire hood of the van.
Called the most dangerous roadway for pedestrians for five consecutive years (2008-2013), Route 130 has been the scene of numerous pedestrian deaths and is still a high-risk ride for motorists. Route 130 has stretches with inadequate lighting, narrow lanes, no sidewalks, and plenty of tractor-trailers speeding down the lanes. The posted speed limits are often ignored; our South Jersey truck accident lawyers have seen cases where truck drivers were driving well over 80 MPH.
Route 30, known as the White Horse Pike, experiences frequent truck accidents. This highway mixes commercial and residential traffic, creating hazardous conditions where businesses line the roadway. Multiple intersections and turning vehicles increase rear-end collision risks as traffic flows slow suddenly. Truck traffic moving through densely populated areas poses dangers to smaller vehicles and pedestrians. The combination of aging road infrastructure, varying speed limits, and heavy usage makes this route particularly prone to serious crashes requiring legal intervention.
Our South Jersey truck accident lawyers hold different parties responsible for truck accident damages. Besides the truck driver, their trucking company may be responsible if they failed to properly train drivers or maintain vehicles. Cargo loading companies can be liable when improperly loaded freight causes accidents, while truck manufacturers may share responsibility if defective parts contributed to the crash. Determining all liable parties requires a thorough investigation of accident reports, maintenance records, and employment relationships.
Most of the truck accident cases that our South Jersey truck accident lawyers work on reach settlements without going to trial. Insurance companies often prefer negotiating settlements rather than facing litigation costs and unpredictable jury verdicts. Also, settlements allow both parties to avoid lengthy court proceedings while reaching mutually acceptable terms. However, some cases do proceed to trial when insurance companies refuse fair compensation offers. Having experienced South Jersey truck accident lawyers prepared for trial strengthens negotiating positions and shows insurance companies that clients are serious about pursuing full compensation.
Q: What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
A: Ensure everyone is safe, call 911, report the crash to law enforcement, document the scene, and seek medical attention. Contacting a lawyer early can help preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Q: Can I file a claim if the truck driver was following a delivery schedule?
A: Yes. Even if a driver is on a schedule, they must follow traffic laws and federal regulations. Negligence or violations can support a claim.
Q: Who can be held responsible in a truck accident?
A: Responsibility can extend to the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or vehicle manufacturers, depending on the circumstances.
Q: Are settlements common in truck accident cases?
A: Yes. Most cases are settled out of court, but some proceed to trial if insurers refuse fair compensation.
You may be entitled to significant compensation for your truck crash injuries. To learn more, contact our skilled South Jersey truck accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC. For a free consultation, call today at 732-920-8383 or contact us online. With office locations in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the state.
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