Collisions involving commercial trucks differ from typical car crashes because these vehicles often weigh 10,000 to 80,000 pounds, carry heavy or hazardous cargo, and operate under both state and federal regulations. Their size, complex maintenance requirements, and multiple parties involved (driver, carrier, loader, manufacturer) make proving liability—and securing full compensation—far more challenging.
Violations of Hours-of-Service rules lead to slower reactions and highway fatigue.
Mobile devices, onboard electronics, or log-keeping distractions.
Unsafe lane changes, tailgating, or failure to yield.
Brake defects, tire blowouts, suspension issues.
Shifted or unsecured loads that destabilize the vehicle.
Victims of commercial truck collisions often suffer life-changing harm. Common injuries include:
Potential compensation covers:
In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2).
New Jersey’s no-fault system requires you to exhaust Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits before suing. To recover non-economic damages (pain and suffering), your injuries must meet the “verbal threshold” of permanent injury, significant disfigurement, fracture, or comparable severity.
New Jersey reduces your award by your percentage of fault. If you’re found more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover any damages.
Commercial trucks operating in interstate commerce must comply with FMCSA mandates (Hours-of-Service, drug testing, vehicle maintenance). New Jersey adds state-specific rules on weight limits, route restrictions, and hazardous-material permits. Violations of these regulations can be key evidence of negligence.
Contact Michael C. Kazer, P.C., Attorney at Law for a free consultation. Let’s review your case, explain your rights, and map out a path to justice—no obligation and no upfront fees.
