If you are involved in a truck accident while on a New Jersey road or highway, you could experience significant injuries. You may also incur significant vehicle repair bills or other losses. Let’s take a closer look at some of the causes of commercial truck accidents and what you should do if your car is struck by a larger vehicle.
Road conditions can lead to an accident
If a road is covered by ice, leaves or other debris, it can make it harder for a commercial vehicle to stop in a timely manner. It can also make it harder for your vehicle to take evasive action in an effort to avoid a crash.
Poorly maintained vehicles increase the risk of a wreck
Vehicles that have improperly inflated tires, inadequate brakes or poorly functioning headlights may be more likely to cause a crash. If tires are not properly inflated, they may be more prone to popping, being punctured or experiencing other types of damage. A truck that has poor brakes won’t be able to stop quickly on wet roads while trucks with inadequate exterior lights are harder to see and avoid when it’s dark outside.
Impaired drivers have trouble processing information
Drivers who are impaired by drugs, alcohol or a lack of sleep often have trouble regulating their behavior behind the wheel. Typically, this occurs because they cannot process information such as how fast they are going or how close they are to other vehicles.
What happens if you’re in an accident?
If you are involved in a truck accident, you are encouraged to stay at the scene until help arrives. At that point, you should give a statement to whoever responds to the scene and before heading to a medical facility where you can be examined by a doctor.
The party that is responsible for causing your crash to occur, which could be the driver or its employer, will be liable for reimbursing you for any losses related to it. These may include medical expenses, property damage and lost wages.