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New Jersey driver killed after striking back of semi-truck

On Behalf of | Dec 12, 2013 | Truck Accidents

Tractor-trailers are nearly 30 times heavier than most passenger cars. Because of this enormous size discrepancy, the injuries sustained by drivers and passengers in cars in truck accidents are often more severe than in other accidents. That is why truck drivers must be especially careful in their actions to prevent any unnecessary accidents.

A recent truck accident involving a car and a tractor-trailer led to the death of the car driver. The truck was driving on Route 280 in New Jersey when it reportedly lost some cargo. As the driver tried to pull the truck over to the side of the road, a car struck the trailer of the truck from behind. The driver of the car that collided with the truck was killed in the aftermath.

When an accident occurs that involves a tractor-trailer, as opposed to passenger vehicles only, assessing liability is based on the same principle of negligence. Truck drivers, like other drivers, have a responsibility to apply reasonable care in the operation of their vehicle. To hold a truck driver liable through negligence, those injured in an accident must prove that the driver breached this responsibility, the breach caused the accident and their injuries were a result of the collision.

One unique aspect of truck accidents, however, is that multiple defendants may be brought into an action to collect damages for such injuries. In addition to the driver, the driver’s employer, as well as contractors and trucking companies may be brought in as defendants in a personal injury or wrongful death action arising from a truck accident. Those injured in such an accident may seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney to guide them through the unique circumstances of any action to collect damages resulting from a truck accident.

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