NJ T-Bone Truck Accident Lawyer

FIGHTING FOR TRUCK ACCIDENT VICTIMS IN NEW JERSEY

T-bone truck accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, are among the most dangerous types of truck accidents. They occur when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle, forming a T-shape. T-bone truck accidents are especially dangerous because trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. As a result, serious injury and death for the occupants of the passenger vehicle involved in a t-bone truck accident are common.

Truck drivers and the companies they work for are legally responsible for following safe driving practices to avoid t-bone truck accidents, and both can be held liable for injuries caused by their negligence or misconduct. If you or a loved one has been injured or lost a family member due to a New Jersey t-bone truck accident, our experienced team of New Jersey truck accident lawyers can represent your interests and help you receive top compensation for your injuries and losses.

Contact our t-bone truck accident lawyers today at 1-800-681-3550 or via the form below for a free consultation.

IMPORTANT NJ TRUCKING ACCIDENT STATISTICS

According to the National Safety Council, in 2021, 117,300 large trucks were involved in crashes resulting in injury, a 12% increase from 2020. That follows a disturbing trend that shows truck accidents are on the rise. Since 2016, the number of trucks involved in injury crashes has increased by 15%.

In 2021, 5,700 large trucks were involved in a fatal crash, an 18% increase from 2020 and a 49% increase in the last ten years.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CAUSES OF T-BONE TRUCK ACCIDENTS

Although there can be many different causes of t-bone truck accidents, some of the most common include:

• Driver fatigue: Although they are required by law to rest and take breaks, most truckers are expected to work 70 hours a week for eight days at a stretch, leading to driver fatigue. Driver fatigue is a major risk factor for truck crashes, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and is a leading cause of t-bone truck accidents.
• Driving under the influence: Truck drivers are also subject to the same DUI laws as every other driver. However, some truck drivers may still choose to drive under the influence. Multiple studies found that as many as 91% of drivers interviewed admitted they drank on the job, and 82% admitted using amphetamines while driving. In 2017, 20% of New Jersey truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher.
• Distracted driving: Truck drivers are just as susceptible to distracted driving as other drivers. They may be distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other objects in the cab. This can be a major problem, as even a brief distraction can lead to a serious accident, especially in a large truck.
• Mechanical failures: According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Fatal Causation Study, 55% of truck accidents involving fatalities involved a mechanical truck failure. That means more than half of all fatal truck accidents could have been prevented if the truck had been properly maintained.
• Tire defects: Nearly 30% of all trucking accidents stem from tire defects, making tire blowouts one of the most common causes of a trucking accident. 

WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES CAN BE SUSTAINED IN T-BONE TRUCK ACCIDENTS?

T-bone truck accidents can result in a variety of serious injuries, including:

• Head injuries: Head injuries are among the most common injuries sustained in t-bone truck accidents. That is because the passenger vehicle’s occupants are often thrown around inside the vehicle during the collision. Head injuries may include a concussion or a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Over half of all reported TBIs result from an automobile accident.
• Whiplash injuries: Whiplash injuries are also common in t-bone truck accidents. That is because the impact force can cause the passenger vehicle’s occupants to whiplash. While many cases of whiplash heal over time, some can have long-lasting effects.
• Chest injuries: Chest injuries can also occur in t-bone truck accidents. That is because the occupants of the passenger vehicle may be crushed between the steering wheel and the dashboard.
• Broken bones: Broken bones are another common injury in t-bone truck accidents. That is because the force of the impact can cause the occupants of the passenger vehicle to be thrown against the inside of the car or other occupants.
• Internal injuries: Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can also occur in t-bone truck accidents. These injuries can be life-threatening.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT T-BONE TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEY IN NEW JERSEY?

Selecting the right truck accident attorney in New Jersey is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

When making your choice, consider the following:

• Experience: Look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling t-bone truck accident cases.
• Reputation: Research the lawyer’s standing in the legal community and among clients.
• Resources: Ensure the lawyer has the resources to handle your case effectively.
• Communication: Choose a responsive lawyer who will keep you informed.
• Contingency fees: Consider working with a lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if you win.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to a t-bone truck accident in New Jersey, the dedicated team at Richard Hollawell and Associates is ready to fight for your rights and help you recover damages and get the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at 1-800-681-3550 or use the contact form below to request a free consultation.