How To Avoid Truck Accidents In New Jersey

By Doug Standriff on June 6, 2025

Truck accidents in New Jersey are a real concern, especially with the high volume of traffic and commercial vehicles on the road. These accidents can lead to severe consequences, and it’s vital for everyone to understand the risks. So, how can truck accidents be prevented? Read on for practical tips from top-rated personal injury lawyers to help you stay safe and reduce the risk of collisions.

Stay Aware of Weather Conditions

New Jersey’s weather can be unpredictable, ranging from snowstorms in winter to heavy rains in summer. Poor weather conditions can increase the likelihood of an accident, especially for large trucks. Trucks are more susceptible to losing traction on slippery roads, and the sheer size of the vehicle means a longer stopping distance.

When road conditions worsen, both truck drivers and passenger vehicles need to adjust their driving. Reducing speed, maintaining safe distances, and being cautious while turning can help avoid accidents.

Adhere to Speed Limits and Drive Defensively

Speeding is one of the primary causes of truck accidents. Due to the size and weight of trucks, speeding increases the potential severity of crashes and makes it harder to stop in time. In New Jersey, many highways have designated truck lanes, which include lower speed limits to account for the vehicle’s size.

Defensive driving is just as important for truck drivers as it is for passenger vehicle drivers. Being aware of your surroundings, maintaining safe distances, and anticipating other drivers’ actions can help reduce the risk of accidents. Truck drivers must stay vigilant, especially in high-traffic areas like the Garden State Parkway and Route 287.

Avoid Blind Spots and Maintain Visibility

Large trucks have significant blind spots, especially along the sides and rear of the vehicle. These blind spots can be dangerous if other drivers fail to realize they are in the truck’s path. If you’re driving near a truck, always make sure the driver can see you, and avoid lingering in their blind spots.

Truck drivers, on the other hand, need to be aware of their blind spots. Before changing lanes or merging, they should always check their mirrors and use additional safety measures like cameras or sensors, which help detect vehicles in their blind spots.

Practice Safe Loading and Unloading Practices

Unbalanced or improperly secured loads can create instability for trucks, leading to accidents. Overloaded trucks are also a major concern. The weight of the load impacts braking time and maneuverability, and an unbalanced load can cause a truck to tip over.

To avoid this, companies must train drivers and staff on proper loading and unloading procedures. Loads should be secured tightly, and the weight should be evenly distributed to avoid strain on any one part of the truck.

Use Technology to Enhance Safety

Technology has revolutionized the trucking industry and can significantly reduce the chances of accidents. Trucking companies can utilize GPS tracking systems to monitor driver behavior, speed, and location. Moreover, in-vehicle technology like collision detection and lane departure warnings can provide real-time alerts to drivers, preventing accidents.

Installing cameras and using sensors can help truck drivers see blind spots and avoid collisions. Dash cams can also be helpful for evidence in case of accidents, enabling quick analysis of the incident.

Educate and Train Drivers

Both truck drivers and passenger vehicle drivers benefit from ongoing education and training about truck safety. For truck drivers, this includes defensive driving courses, vehicle operation, and best practices for sharing the road with other vehicles. Passenger vehicle drivers, on the other hand, should understand the limitations of trucks and learn how to drive safely around them.

Truck companies should invest in regular safety workshops and driving courses for their drivers. Furthermore, awareness campaigns can help all road users practice safe driving around trucks.

Truck Accident in Bergen County, NJ? Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in New Jersey, you need an experienced truck accident attorney who knows the ins and outs of truck accident law. At Bergen Law, we have over 30 years of experience in handling personal injury cases in Bergen County, NJ and fighting for the compensation our clients deserve.

Attorney Douglas Standriff and his associate, Marissa Messinger, have a proven track record of success, providing personalized and effective legal representation for victims of truck accidents. We handle various types of truck accidents, from rear-end collisions to rollovers, ensuring that your case is in the hands of experts.

Let us use our knowledge of New Jersey’s complex personal injury laws to get you the compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With a no-obligation, free consultation, you have nothing to lose. Call today for a free, confidential consultation at 201-445-4555 and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.