8 Major Types Of Truck Accidents To Watch For
By Doug Standriff on September 1, 2025
Recognizing the types of truck accidents is essential for understanding the dangers these massive vehicles pose on the road. Truck collisions often cause far greater harm than typical car crashes because of their weight and size.
When a commercial truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the results can be catastrophic, leading to serious injuries, property destruction, or loss of life. Awareness of the most common types of truck accidents helps drivers identify risks, determine liability, and seek proper legal support when tragedy strikes.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident happens when a truck’s trailer swings outward, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. This typically occurs when a driver brakes too hard or suddenly on a slippery surface, causing the trailer to skid uncontrollably. Jackknife crashes can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to multi-vehicle pileups.
In many cases, these accidents are caused by speeding, driver fatigue, or improper braking techniques. Victims of such crashes often face serious injuries and lengthy recovery periods.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions involving large trucks can cause immense destruction even at lower speeds. Such crashes occur when a truck cannot stop in time and strikes a vehicle ahead.
Because trucks need longer distances to brake, distractions or tailgating often make these crashes unavoidable. Victims can suffer from serious conditions such as whiplash, broken bones, or spinal trauma.
Underride Accidents
Among the deadliest types of truck accidents, underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle slides under a truck’s trailer. The impact often crushes the car’s roof, which will lead to catastrophic or fatal injuries for passengers. These accidents are often linked to poor visibility, sudden stops, or a lack of rear guards on the truck.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof, typically due to sharp turns, excessive speed, or unevenly loaded cargo. The momentum of a fully loaded truck makes it prone to rolling over, particularly on curved roads or in windy conditions.
These crashes can spill cargo across highways, putting nearby motorists in danger. Victims of rollovers may suffer from life-altering injuries that require long-term rehabilitation. In such cases, legal assistance from skilled Bergen County truck accident lawyers can help determine fault and pursue rightful compensation.
Tire Blowout Accidents
A tire blowout can cause a truck to swerve uncontrollably and collide with other vehicles. Such accidents often stem from poor tire maintenance, overloading, or manufacturing defects.
When a tire bursts at highway speeds, the driver may lose control instantly. This is one of the types of truck accidents that can involve multiple responsible parties, including mechanics, manufacturers, or trucking companies. Determining liability in these cases requires careful investigation and experienced legal representation.
Blind Spot Accidents
Every truck has large blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones”, around the sides, front, and rear of the vehicle. When cars linger in these areas, truck drivers may be unable to see them during lane changes or turns.
A single moment of inattention can lead to a serious collision. While all drivers share responsibility for avoiding blind spots, truck operators must be trained to check mirrors frequently and signal properly. Failure to do so can lead to severe injuries for unsuspecting motorists.
Wide-Turn Accidents
Wide-turn accidents occur when trucks swing left before making a right-hand turn, requiring additional space. Passenger vehicles positioned too closely can become trapped or crushed between the truck and the curb. These incidents often result from poor spatial judgment, impatience, or a lack of awareness from the truck driver.
For victims, proving negligence in these cases requires strong evidence, including dashcam footage or witness statements. Legal professionals experienced in trucking laws can help victims pursue appropriate compensation.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes involving trucks are relatively rare but often fatal. They occur when a truck veers into oncoming traffic, usually because of fatigue, intoxication, or distraction. The force of impact is immense, leaving little chance for survival in smaller vehicles.
Victims and their families must deal not only with grief but also with financial and emotional burdens. Consulting a professional wrongful death lawyer in Bergen County can help families know their legal rights and options for compensation in such devastating cases.
Recognizing Truck Accident Risks and Taking Action
Truck accidents can happen in many ways, but most share one thing in common: negligence or error that could have been prevented. Understanding the major types of truck accidents helps victims recognize potential causes and take the necessary steps toward justice.
At Bergen Law, we have over 30 years of experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases. Our trial-tested team is led by a certified civil trial attorney dedicated to securing fair outcomes for victims. We take pride in representing clients throughout Bergen County with compassion, professionalism, and determination.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a truck collision, our team is here to help. Contact Bergen Law today to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice.