Rear-end truck collisions are among the most dangerous and complex types of collisions on New Jersey roads. When a large truck rear-ends another vehicle, the aftermath can be catastrophic, leading to severe injuries, extensive property damage, and overwhelming medical bills.
If you’re seeking compensation after a rear-end truck crash in New Jersey, get legal help from Grossman Law. We are a top-rated personal injury law firm with nearly 30 years’ experience in NJ, helping truck accident victims obtain their maximum compensation. Consult for free. Contact us at (877) 996-5529 – our qualified truck accident attorney is eager to assist you.
What Are Rear-End Truck Accidents?
A rear-end truck accident happens when a vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle, often due to distracted driving, brake failure, or poor road conditions. These types of collisions are particularly dangerous because trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, making the impact far more severe.
In New Jersey, rear-end truck accidents are one of the most common types of motor vehicle collisions on highways and urban roads. Whether you’re driving along Middlesex County or near the New Jersey Shore, understanding these accidents is crucial to protecting yourself and others.
When a Truck Rear-Ends Your Vehicle
Large trucks are 20 to 30 times heavier than passenger cars, requiring more time and distance to stop. If a truck driver fails to pay attention and traffic slows, they may be unable to stop in time, leading to a rear-end collision. These crashes can be severe due to the truck’s size and force.
In many rear-end truck accidents, the truck driver is at fault. Drivers must leave enough space to stop safely, even if traffic slows unexpectedly. If you were injured in a rear-end truck crash, our New Jersey truck accident lawyers can help.
When Passenger Cars Rear-End Trucks
Rear-ending a truck can be deadly. Since trucks sit higher off the ground, smaller vehicles may slide underneath in devastating underride crashes. Federal laws require trucks to have rear impact guards, known as Mansfield bars, to prevent these accidents.
If a truck lacks proper safety features like reflectors or brake lights, the trucking company or driver may share liability. If you were injured in a rear-end collision with a truck, consult a New Jersey truck accident lawyer to explore your legal options.
Why Do Rear-End Collisions Happen?
Rear-end collisions involving trucks can happen for several reasons:
- Distracted driving: A truck driver may be texting or not paying attention to brake lights ahead.
- Brake failure: Large trucks require well-maintained brakes to avoid collisions.
- Following too closely: Trucks need more time to stop compared to smaller vehicles.
- Poor weather conditions: Rain or snow can make it harder for trucks to avoid a collision.
These factors often contribute to accidents involving commercial trucks throughout New Jersey.
Common Injuries in Rear-End Truck Accidents
When a large truck is involved in rear-end collisions, injuries can range from minor to life-threatening:
- Whiplash: Sudden impact causes neck strain.
- Spinal cord injuries: Severe trauma can lead to paralysis.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head injuries range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, or ribs may be fractured due to impact.
Victims often face long-term medical bills and pain and suffering following these accidents.
Who Is at Fault in Rear-End Truck Collisions?
Determining fault for the accident is critical in rear-end collisions. In most cases, the driver behind is at fault for failing to keep a safe distance or avoid a collision. However, other factors may complicate liability:
- Was the front driver suddenly braking without cause?
- Did brake failure or mechanical issues contribute to the accident?
- Were trucking companies negligent in maintaining their vehicles?
An experienced personal injury attorney will investigate all aspects of your accident case.
Who Is Liable in a Rear-End Truck Accident?
Under New Jersey Revised Statutes 39:4-89, drivers must maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to prevent collisions. Since a driver may need to brake suddenly, following too closely increases the risk of an accident.
To meet legal standards, truck drivers must leave at least 100 feet of space behind another truck, unless passing it. This rule places most of the responsibility for a rear-end crash on the driver in the back.
In most rear-end collisions, the rear driver is presumed at fault for following too closely and violating traffic laws. However, in some cases, the front driver may also contribute to the accident through careless actions.
Determining liability in rear-end truck accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances surrounding the collision. While the rear driver is often presumed to be at fault for failing to maintain a safe following distance, other factors can shift or divide liability among different parties. Here’s a breakdown of potential liable parties:
The Truck Driver
The truck driver may be held responsible if they engaged in negligent behavior such as:
- Distracted driving (such as by texting or using a device while driving)
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Fatigue due to violations of Hours of Service (HOS) regulations
- Speeding or failing to control the vehicle.
Truck drivers are expected to exercise extra caution due to the size and weight of their vehicles, which can cause significant damage in collisions.
The Trucking Company
Trucking companies can be liable if their practices contributed to the accident. Common examples include:
- Negligent hiring or training of drivers
- Imposing unrealistic delivery schedules that encourage unsafe driving
- Failing to enforce mandatory rest periods for drivers
- Neglecting vehicle maintenance requirements.
If a trucking company prioritizes profits over safety, they may share responsibility for accidents involving their drivers.
Third Parties
Liability may also extend to other entities such as:
- Maintenance providers: If mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes, caused the accident.
- Cargo loaders: Improperly secured or unbalanced cargo can destabilize trucks and lead to collisions.
- Manufacturers: Defective truck parts, such as brake systems or tires, may result in accidents.
- Government entities: Poor road conditions, missing signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals could implicate local or state agencies.
In cases involving multiple parties, accident reconstruction specialists and forensic analysts are often needed to establish liability and determine how negligence contributed to the collision.
The Lead Driver
Although less common, the lead driver may share liability under certain circumstances:
- Sudden and unnecessary braking without warning
- Driving with non-functioning brake lights
- Reckless maneuvers, such as abrupt lane changes or cutting off a truck.
These actions can make it difficult for even a cautious truck driver to avoid a collision.
Understanding who is responsible for a rear-end truck accident is crucial for pursuing compensation. Liability affects how damages are distributed among parties and determines whether victims can file lawsuits against trucking companies, manufacturers, or other entities. Consulting an experienced truck accident lawyer ensures that all liable parties are identified and held accountable for their negligence.
What Compensation Can You Claim After a Rear-End Collision?
Victims of rear-end truck accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future medical expenses.
Truck accident victims should speak to an attorney about filing a personal injury claim to recover damages.
Steps to Take After a Rear-End Truck Accident
If you’re involved in one of these accidents, follow these steps:
- Call emergency services and report the accident.
- Gather evidence such as photos and witness information.
- Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters until you’ve consulted an attorney.
- Schedule a free consultation with an experienced NJ lawyer.
Taking prompt action ensures your rights are protected throughout New Jersey.
How Insurance Companies Handle Truck Accident Claims
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by blaming victims or offering low settlements. This is especially relevant in New Jersey, where the comparative negligence rule also examines the potential negligence of the injured parties. Under this rule, compensation for a crash victim is reduced according to their share of fault. Insurers may take advantage of this rule to reduce your settlement.
An experienced personal injury attorney can counter these tactics by presenting strong evidence and negotiating aggressively on your behalf.
How Can a New Jersey Accident Lawyer Help?
An experienced New Jersey accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in various aspects of your claim:
- Investigation: Lawyers gather evidence such as police reports and witness statements.
- Negotiation: They negotiate with insurance companies for fair settlements.
- Representation: If necessary, lawyers file lawsuits and represent victims in court.
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney ensures you get the compensation you deserve after one of these accidents.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Experienced NJ Truck Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end truck accident in New Jersey, don’t wait — contact us at Grossman Law today for a free case evaluation. We help victims secure fair settlements or verdicts after serious rear-end collisions.
With nearly three decades of experience, a proven track record of securing multi-million-dollar outcomes, and a commitment to treating every client like family, we are your trusted partner against powerful trucking companies and insurance carriers. Our team understands the unique challenges of truck accident cases and is passionate about protecting your rights and helping you rebuild your life.Whether you’re in Marlboro, Edison, Rutherford, or anywhere across New Jersey, we can travel to you or arrange transportation if needed. Call Grossman Law at (877) 996-5529 or visit our website to schedule your consultation. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. Don’t wait — justice starts with one call!