Trucking accidents can cause serious injuries and life-altering damage. Many factors contribute to these accidents in New Jersey, and some are specific to the state’s unique environment.
Understanding these common causes can help you stay alert and avoid dangerous situations behind the wheel.
1. Congested highways
New Jersey has some of the busiest highways in the country, including the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. Heavy traffic increases the risk of motor vehicle accidents, especially for large trucks that require more time to stop or change lanes. Sudden braking and lane changes are common, creating hazards for both truck drivers and other motorists.
2. Tight urban areas
New Jersey has densely populated cities like Newark, Jersey City and Paterson. Trucks often navigate narrow streets, sharp turns and crowded intersections in these areas. Limited space and heavy pedestrian traffic make maneuvering difficult for large vehicles. Misjudging a turn or failing to see a smaller vehicle can lead to collisions.
3. Challenging weather conditions
The state’s seasonal weather changes can be drastic. Icy roads in winter and heavy rainstorms, create additional challenges for truck drivers. Slick road surfaces reduce traction and make it harder for trucks to maintain control. Fog in the northern regions and coastal areas can also limit visibility, increasing the chances of accidents.
4. Proximity to ports and warehouses
New Jersey’s role as a transportation hub means trucks frequently travel to and from major ports like Port Newark and Port Elizabeth. This constant flow of commercial vehicles, combined with tight delivery schedules, can lead to driver fatigue and speeding. Trucks entering and exiting busy port areas may also increase the risk of accidents for nearby vehicles.
Data from the New Jersey Department of Health shows that there were 624 deaths due to motor vehicle-related injuries in the state in 2020. While trucking accidents only account for a fraction of these, there is no denying that the damages caused by larger vehicles can be much more likely to lead to fatalities when the drivers involved lack awareness.