New Jersey Truck Explosion Highlights Serious Hazards

Semi-trucks continue to explode in New Jersey, and these accidents highlight the hazards of the commercial trucking industry with shocking clarity. Explosions of this magnitude are almost guaranteed to cause catastrophic injuries and fatalities – and they endanger everyone on the road. Survivors may spend the rest of their lives struggling with some of the most traumatic injuries imaginable, including disfiguring burns and amputations. If any of this sounds familiar, you might want to book a consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer in New Jersey. 

Truck Laden With Volatile Chemicals Explodes in New Jersey

In late July of 2024, it was reported that a tractor-trailer had exploded in New Jersey. The detonation completely obliterated the vehicle, leaving only vague remains behind. The fireball was massive, and it prompted evacuations throughout an entire nearby neighborhood. 

Authorities stated that the truck had initially caught fire after crashing into a barrier. This fire then spread to the truck’s cargo – a shipment of explosive chemicals. The explosion caused fatal injuries to the truck driver, but no one else was harmed. To say that this “could have been worse” would be a serious understatement. 

As is often the case, firefighters faced the most serious hazards during and after the explosion. One video seemed to show a firefighter coming extremely close to a barrel – just before it detonated and flew into the air. 

In the aftermath of the accident, the circumstances surrounding the crash became more clear. Authorities explained that the semi-truck had collided with a commuter bus before slamming into a retaining wall. It was at this moment that the truck went up in flames. 

The trucking company that owned the truck then provided more details about the nature of the chemicals involved. According to this company, these chemicals were “corrosive and flammable” but “non-toxic.” Although the truck was reportedly fitted with signs warning people of this dangerous cargo, these warnings achieved very little when the vehicle detonated. 

Local residents are concerned about potential contamination. It is not clear how a material could possibly be corrosive and non-toxic at the same time. Some residents have complained about the air quality, especially those with respiratory conditions. Others say that they have spotted discolored water in the immediate vicinity. Although local authorities assure everyone that there was no contamination, some are questioning this assessment. 

Despite these concerns, observers are relieved that the accident occurred in such an isolated stretch of Route 3. New Jersey has the highest population density of any state, and this explosion could have destroyed numerous homes if it occurred in a different area. 

What are the Most Common Injuries After a New Jersey Truck Accident?

Explosions tend to cause catastrophic, life-altering, or fatal injuries. The fact that this truck was carrying chemicals raises additional health concerns. Skin burns are associated with vehicle explosions, and they can lead to disfiguring scars. Fortunately, it may be possible to pursue additional compensation for disfigurement, which is a separate, non-economic damage in New Jersey. Personal injury courts recognize that burns can severely damage a plaintiff’s self-esteem and overall mental health. 

Victims closer to the epicenter of the explosion may suffer amputated limbs. These limbs could be blown off by the force of the explosion. Alternatively, doctors may have no choice but to amputate mangled limbs once victims arrive at the emergency room. 

Explosions can also cause traumatic head injuries, slamming people into solid objects and causing serious brain damage. These injuries may also result in internal brain bleeds – also known as “intracranial hemorrhages.” The consequences of brain injuries can be life-altering, and these patients may never be the same. 

Chemical explosions cause additional health concerns, and some of these injuries may not be clear for many years. After being exposed to a dangerous chemical after an explosion, a victim might slowly develop cancer throughout the next few decades. Once they are diagnosed, they may still hold the trucking company accountable. This is why it makes sense to seek treatment after a truck explosion – even if you are not sure whether you have suffered any injuries. 

File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in New Jersey With Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. 

If a semi-truck explosion hurt you or someone you love, it might be time to consider legal action. With help from Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C., you can hold negligent trucking companies accountable for allowing these explosions to occur. Our experienced New Jersey truck accident lawyers can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, and any other damages you might have incurred. Reach out today, book a consultation, and get started with an action plan.