A collision with a large commercial truck is a profoundly traumatic experience, leaving you shaken, injured, and unsure of what comes next. The moments after a truck accident in NJ are often a blur of flashing lights, sirens, and confusion. You are not alone in feeling overwhelmed; government statistics reveal the sobering reality of these incidents on our roadways. According to the New Jersey State Police, as of mid-June 2025, there have already been 242 fatal crashes resulting in 259 fatalities this year alone. While not all of these involve large trucks, data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration consistently shows that crashes involving commercial vehicles often lead to more severe outcomes for the occupants of passenger cars.

Your priority is, and should be, your well-being. However, the steps you take in the hours and days following the crash are important for protecting your rights and ensuring you have the resources for a full recovery. This guide was created to provide a clear, step-by-step path forward, helping you understand what to do after a NJ truck accident. From documenting the scene to dealing with powerful insurance companies, knowing your rights is the first step toward justice. Navigating this process can be complex, which is why many victims seek the guidance of a qualified truck accident lawyer in NJ to advocate on their behalf.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in New Jersey

Your actions in the immediate aftermath of a truck accident are incredibly important. While it can be difficult to think clearly amidst the chaos, prioritizing these steps can make a significant difference.

Prioritize Safety and Call 911

The first and most important action is to assess your safety and the safety of others. If you are able to, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. However, if you are seriously injured or your vehicle is inoperable, it is best to remain in your car with your hazard lights on until help arrives.

Immediately call 911. This single call will dispatch police and emergency medical services to the scene. A police report is an official record of the accident and will be a fundamental piece of evidence in your case. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is imperative to be evaluated by a medical professional. The adrenaline from the accident can mask pain, and some serious injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, may not have immediate symptoms.

Document Everything at the Scene

If you are physically able to do so, begin documenting the scene of the accident. This evidence will be invaluable later on.

• Photographs and Videos: Use your smartphone to take extensive photos and videos from multiple angles. Capture images of all vehicles involved, including the damage to each, the license plates, and any identifying marks on the truck, such as the company name and USDOT number. Document the surrounding area, including traffic signals, road conditions, skid marks, and any debris on the road.
• Witness Information: If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their testimony can provide an unbiased account of what happened.
• Exchange Information: Exchange the following information with the truck driver:
  • Name and contact information
  • Driver's license number
  • Insurance information for the driver and the trucking company
  • The trucking company's name and contact information
  • The truck's license plate number and any other identifying numbers

Do not engage in a lengthy conversation with the truck driver or any representatives of the trucking company who may arrive at the scene. Keep your interactions brief and professional.

Be Mindful of What You Say

What you say after the accident can have significant legal ramifications. Never admit fault or apologize for the accident. Even a simple "I'm sorry" can be twisted and used against you later to suggest you were at fault. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police.

The Days Following a New Jersey Truck Accident

The steps you take in the days after the accident are just as important as your actions at the scene. This is the time to focus on your health and begin to lay the groundwork for your legal claim.

Seek Thorough Medical Attention

Even if you were seen by paramedics at the scene or went to the emergency room, it is important to schedule a follow-up appointment with your primary care physician. Some injuries can take days or even weeks to fully manifest. A comprehensive medical evaluation will ensure that all of your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. Following your doctor's prescribed treatment plan is not only essential for your recovery but also demonstrates the severity of your injuries to insurance companies.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Notify your own insurance company about the accident promptly. Provide them with the basic facts of the incident, but avoid going into extensive detail or providing a recorded statement until you have consulted with a truck accident attorney.

Understand the Complexities of Truck Accident Claims

A collision with a passenger vehicle is a far different matter than an accident involving a commercial truck. Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of investigators and lawyers who will immediately begin working to minimize their liability. Several factors make these cases more complex:

• Multiple Liable Parties: Unlike a typical car accident where you are usually dealing with the other driver, a truck accident can involve multiple potentially liable parties. This can include the truck driver, the trucking company, the owner of the truck or trailer, the company that loaded the cargo, and even the manufacturer of the truck's parts.
• Federal and State Regulations: The trucking industry is heavily regulated by both federal and state laws. These regulations govern everything from the number of hours a driver can be on the road to vehicle maintenance and cargo loading procedures. A violation of these regulations can be a key factor in proving negligence.
• Evidence Preservation: Trucking companies are required to preserve certain evidence, such as the driver's logs, maintenance records, and data from the truck's "black box" (Electronic Logging Device). However, this evidence can be legally destroyed after a certain period. An experienced truck accident lawyer will know how to send a spoliation letter to ensure this evidence is preserved for your case.

Why You Need a NJ Truck Accident Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a New Jersey truck accident on your own is a monumental task, especially when you are trying to recover from your injuries. This is where a skilled truck accident lawyer becomes your most important ally.

Leveling the Playing Field

Trucking companies and their insurers have vast resources and will immediately start building a defense. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. A truck accident attorney will level the playing field, ensuring that your rights are protected from the very beginning.

Conducting a Thorough Investigation

An experienced legal team will launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the accident. This goes far beyond the police report and can include

• Accident Reconstruction Experts: These professionals can analyze the physical evidence to determine exactly how the accident occurred.
• Reviewing Company Records: Your attorney will work to obtain and analyze the trucking company's records for any signs of negligence, such as a history of safety violations or hiring unqualified drivers.
• Analyzing Driver Logs: Investigating the truck driver's logs can reveal violations of hours-of-service regulations, which are designed to prevent fatigued driving.
• Examining Maintenance Records: A lack of proper maintenance can lead to equipment failure and accidents.

Calculating Your Damages After a NJ Truck Accident

The true cost of a truck accident goes far beyond the initial medical bills. A knowledgeable attorney will work to calculate the full extent of your damages, which can include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes all past, current, and future medical costs, from emergency room visits and surgeries to physical therapy and in-home care.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you are entitled to compensation for your lost income.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries are permanent and affect your ability to earn a living in the future, you can seek damages for your diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress you have endured as a result of the accident.
• Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property that was damaged in the crash.

The Legal Process in New Jersey After a Truck Accident

Understanding the legal timeline can help you feel more in control during a challenging time.

The Statute of Limitations in New Jersey

In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this timeframe, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. While there are some exceptions to this rule, it is always best to act quickly to protect your legal rights.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

The trucking company's insurance adjuster may contact you soon after the accident and offer you a quick settlement. It is important to understand that this initial offer is almost always far less than what your claim is actually worth. The insurance company is hoping that you will accept a lowball offer before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and damages. Never accept a settlement offer or sign any documents without first speaking with a truck accident lawyer.

Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in New Jersey

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf. The legal process can involve several stages, including

• Discovery: This is the formal process of exchanging information and evidence between the parties. It can involve written questions (interrogatories), requests for documents, and depositions (sworn testimony taken out of court).
• Mediation and Arbitration: Many cases are resolved through alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation, where a neutral third party helps the parties reach a mutually agreeable settlement.
• Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

An experienced truck accident attorney will guide you through every step of this process, advocating for your best interests and fighting to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Need Legal Help? Call Brandon J. Broderick Today

The aftermath of a truck accident in New Jersey can be a confusing and difficult time. You do not have to face it alone. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases and are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured victims. We have the resources, experience, and dedication to take on the large trucking companies and their insurers.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain how we can help you on the road to recovery.