New Jersey Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers

Filing a Truck Accident Claim

If involved in an accident with a tractor trailer, it would be well-advised to secure the representation of an experienced injury lawyer in New Jersey. The legal team at the Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari has successfully represented New Jersey injury victims for over seven decades, securing hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts surrounding tractor trailer and other motor vehicle accident claims. Call our offices at 973-845-4421 for a no-cost, comprehensive case evaluation.

With 39,000 miles of public roadway and situated in a coastal area with some of the world busiest ports, New Jersey is host to constant tractor trailer traffic. The trucking industry is a vital component of our state’s economy. However, tractor trailers (also referred to as big rigs or semi-trucks) can be a menacing presence to drivers of smaller motor vehicles. With their massive size and weight, tractor trailers pose a significant risk to others on our nation’s highways. Each year, thousands of people get into accidents and sustain severe injuries.

Get Free Advice From An Experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer. All You Have To Do Is Call 973-845-4421 or Fill Out Our Free Case Evaluation Form.

Size and Weight Disparity Between Tractor Trailers and Other Passenger Vehicles

One of the reasons tractor trailers pose such a danger to smaller vehicles is the vast disparity in size and weight. A fully loaded big rig can legally weigh 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger vehicle weighs about 4,000 pounds. Tractor trailers are approximately 70 to 80 feet in length, while the average car is approximately 14 feet long. Due to its size and weight, a semi-truck takes longer to completely stop and is more difficult to maneuver compared to a smaller vehicle.

Find Out What Your Case Is Worth – Call 973-845-4421 or Fill Out Our Free Case Evaluation Form.

Federal Regulations and Violations

In order to keep all drivers and passengers safe, the trucking industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Although, most trucking companies and the drivers they employ follow FMCSA rules, there are a few which turn a deaf ear to Federal regulations, potentially encourage their drivers to violate Federal law, or ignore obvious violations in order to increase profit margins. Some hazardous tractor trailer operations or “habits” prohibited by Federal Regulation which may increase the risk of an accident include:

  • Speeding (especially in light of certain road conditions)
  • Overloading trailers
  • Skipping driver rest breaks or driving more hours in a shift than permitted by law (driver fatigue)
  • Driving more days in a row than permitted by law
  • Use of amphetamines or other stimulants

Compensation for Accidents with Tractor Trailers

If you are involved in an accident with a tractor trailer you may be able to file claims for compensation surrounding the following damage issues:

  • Property loss or damage
  • Past and anticipated medical and therapy bills
  • Permanent injury or disability
  • Mental anguish and emotional trauma
  • Household and vehicle modifications to accommodate your injuries
  • Lost wages and lost earning capacity
  • Loss of enjoyment of life and effect on daily activities
  • Punitive damages

New Jersey Wrongful Death Compensation

In the tragic event that you have lost a loved one in an accident with a tractor trailer, you and your family may be entitled to compensation for damages including:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical bills
  • Pain and suffering of the deceased
  • Loss of future income
  • Loss of future benefits, such as medical benefits and retirement benefits
  • Loss of love, affection, companionship, guidance, marital consortium, etc.
  • Loss of household services the deceased performed, such as childcare, bookkeeping, property and vehicle maintenance, etc.

Tractor trailer accidents are more complex to litigate than standard car-on-car crashes due to the large number of involved parties. Every entity from the driver himself to the trucking carrier, the manufacturer of the truck, and even mechanics involved in the maintenance of the vehicle can be involved, causing a complex web of legal issues. This is why it is highly recommended that you seek representation by a highly qualified and experienced New Jersey vehicle accident attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tractor-Trailer Accidents

FAQ: How much does it cost to hire a tractor-trailer accident lawyer?

The attorneys at Blume Forte work on a contingency basis. This means they will get a percentage of what is awarded to you. They only get paid if they are successful in winning your case. Our firm also offers a free initial case review to discuss the details of your case. During this consultation, your lawyer will let you know of any other fees and costs associated with hiring a lawyer.

FAQ: What to do when a tractor-trailer accident happens to you?

A tractor-trailer accident can be devastating because of the damage it can inflict. Immediately after the accident call the police and wait for them and the paramedics to arrive. Seek medical attention for your injuries soon after the accident. Some injuries don’t appear right away. Taking photos and videos of the accident scene will be helpful as evidence in the future when you need to prove who was at fault. Contact an experienced tractor-trailer lawyer who will represent you and fight for the compensation you deserve.

FAQ: What is the average tractor-trailer accident case worth?

To determine how much your case is worth you have to calculate the value of your damages. Damages can look different for every person but some of the most common are:

– loss of wages
– emotional and mental distress
– hospital bills
– loss of future earnings
– pain and suffering
– permanent injury or disability

Proving that the at-fault party’s negligence is what caused the accident is vital for your case. If you lost a loved one in a tractor-trailer accident there are even more damages you are entitled to. To get the maximum compensation for your damages, contact a knowledgeable Blume Forte lawyer. They will be able to give you an estimate for the worth of your case after hearing all the details.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION