What Are the Most Common Types of Truck Accidents in New Jersey?

Posted on: February 6, 2026

Truck accidents in New Jersey often lead to severe personal injury and complex legal claims. Because commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, collisions frequently cause catastrophic damage. Understanding the most common types of truck accidents can help injured individuals recognize how these crashes occur and when negligence may be involved under New Jersey law.

What Types of Truck Accidents Occur Most Often in New Jersey?

Intersection accidents are among the most common truck-related crashes. Large trucks require more time and space to stop and turn, which can lead to collisions when traffic signals change or when trucks attempt wide turns. Passenger vehicles traveling alongside trucks may be struck during these maneuvers, especially in congested areas.

Rear-end collisions are also frequent, particularly on highways and major roadways. When a truck driver follows too closely or becomes distracted, the truck may not stop in time to avoid hitting slower or stopped traffic. Owing to the size and force of commercial trucks, rear-end impacts often result in serious injuries.

Sideswipe accidents often happen when trucks change lanes without properly checking their blind spots. Because trucks have significantly larger blind spots than cars, vehicles traveling beside them are especially vulnerable.

How Do Jackknife Accidents Happen?

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings outward at an angle from the cab. These crashes often happen when a driver brakes suddenly or loses traction. Wet or icy road surfaces increase the risk, particularly during New Jersey’s winter months.

When a trailer jackknifes, it can block multiple lanes of traffic and trigger chain-reaction crashes, leaving surrounding drivers little time to react.

What Causes Truck Rollovers in Freehold?

Truck rollovers occur when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof. These accidents may happen during sharp turns, sudden maneuvers, or when cargo shifts unexpectedly. Improperly secured cargo raises the center of gravity, increasing the likelihood of rollover crashes.

Speed is often a contributing factor. When trucks travel too fast for road conditions, rollover accidents become more likely and often cause extensive injuries.

What Are Underride Accidents?

Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a truck or trailer. These collisions are among the most dangerous types of truck accidents because the smaller vehicle’s safety features may offer little protection.

Underride crashes may occur when a truck stops suddenly, lacks proper guards, or is difficult to see in low-light conditions.

How Do Blind Spots Contribute to Truck Accidents?

Trucks have large blind spots on both sides, directly behind the trailer, and in front of the cab. When passenger vehicles remain in these areas, truck drivers may be unaware of their presence.

Blind spot accidents commonly occur in heavy traffic when vehicles merge or pass large trucks without realizing the driver cannot see them.

How Is Liability Determined in Truck Accident Cases?

Liability in truck accidents often extends beyond the driver. New Jersey law allows injured individuals to pursue claims against trucking companies when unsafe practices contribute to a crash. This may include inadequate training, poor vehicle maintenance, or violations of safety regulations.

Other parties, such as cargo loaders or maintenance providers, may also share responsibility depending on how the accident occurred.

What Injuries Are Common in Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents frequently cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and internal injuries. Recovery may involve long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation.

New Jersey law allows injured individuals to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. In fatal cases, families may pursue wrongful death claims.

Freehold Truck Accident Lawyers at Ellis Law Can Help You With the Legal Process

Truck accidents can leave lasting physical and financial consequences. If you need legal help regarding a collision involving a truck, contact our Freehold truck accident lawyers at Ellis Law. Our legal team helps accident victims identify responsible parties, navigate New Jersey law, and pursue compensation for the full impact of their injuries. Call us at 732-308-0200 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Monmouth County, New Jersey, including Middletown, Neptune City, and Freehold, as well as New York, and we serve clients in New Jersey and New York.