Traffic Accident Involving Semi Leads to the Closure of I-78 West in Hunterdon County

Bloomsbury, NJ (August 21st, 2021) – According to the New Jersey State Police, an SUV and a semi-truck collided shortly before 10 a.m. on Tuesday. The accident prompted the complete closure of Interstate 78 for two hours in Hunterdon County.

State police indicate that there were multiple injuries caused by the wreck.

The semi-truck overturned upon collision, according to authorities, and this quickly backed up the traffic in the area west of Exit 7.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation reported that the westbound lanes of the highway were finally reopened just before noon.

Authorities continue investigating the collision. Anyone with further information regarding this accident is being asked to contact the State police at Perryville.

With well over 30,000 miles of public roads and highways situated on a coastal area that houses some of the world’s busiest ports, the State of New Jersey is a host to constant traffic from large commercial vehicles. The commercial trucking industry is critical to the state’s economy. Still, large semi-trucks can be a threatening presence to those who drive smaller passenger vehicles. As a result of their massive size and weight, these vehicles pose a significant risk to other motorists. Every year, hundreds of people are involved in traffic accidents with these vehicles and they sustain serious, life-threatening injuries.

A main reason these large vehicles pose a serious threat and endanger those traveling in smaller vehicles is the obvious size disparity between the vehicles. A fully loaded commercial truck can legally weigh up to 80,000 pounds. On the other hand, most passenger vehicles weigh roughly 4,000 pounds. Further, semi-trucks are about 75 feet in length while average passenger vehicles measure about 14 feet in length. The massive size and weight of large semi-trucks mean that these vehicles are not only harder to maneuver, it is also harder for these vehicles to come to a complete stop.

To ensure all drivers on the road are safe, the freight industry is strictly regulated by a federal agency known as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. While a vast majority of truck drivers and their employers abide by the rules set by the agency, there are some who choose to violate the regulations and potentially endanger the lives of those they share the road with.

A few of the most dangerous habits a truck driver or trucking company can partake in include skipping rest breaks, speeding, violating traffic laws, overloading their trailers, driving while under the influence, using a hand-held device while driving, and failing to adhere to the hours of service set by the federal government.

If you or someone you love was injured in a truck accident involving a large commercial vehicle, there may be an opportunity to recover compensation from the at-fault party. Monetary damages obtained from a successful personal injury claim include property losses, disability, past and future medical costs, emotional trauma, loss of earning capacity, loss of quality of life, and more.

In the event that the collision resulted in the death of a loved one, the victim’s survivors may be entitled to financial compensation for damages that include medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of anticipated income, pain and suffering, loss of anticipated benefits, loss of household services, and loss of companionship.

Large commercial truck accidents are far more challenging to litigate than an average auto accident as a result of the number of parties that may be involved. Every party from the truck driver, the commercial truck company, the vehicle’s manufacturer, and even the company employed to maintain the vehicle can face responsibility for the accident, thus causing an intricate web of legal dilemmas. For these reasons, it is critically important that injured parties seek professional representation by a well-versed truck accident law firm.

If you or someone you love was injured in a large truck accident, proving that the liable party’s negligence caused the accident is an essential part of your case and is vital to a successful outcome. When the accident resulted in the passing of your loved one, you may be entitled to even more monetary damages. To ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve, contact an experienced attorney right away.

With more than 20 years of dedicated service, Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. can provide you the legal representation you and your family deserve. The firm is committed to ensuring their clients receive the highest compensation available; therefore, they will work tirelessly to build strong claims for their clients. To get started on your truck accident case today, consider contacting Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. to schedule a complimentary consultation.