New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyer

The list of those who may be liable for a New Jersey truck accident typically begins with the drivers involved in the collision. Drivers of trucks and cars owe others on the road a duty to operate their vehicles safely. When they breach this duty, they may cause an accident that results in injuries and other damages. 

Outside of the drivers directly involved, other related parties can share in the liability for your injury. For example, the employer of a commercial truck driver may be vicariously liable in New Jersey, making them responsible for an employee’s negligence. For an employer to be liable, the truck diver must have acted within the scope of their employment when their negligence caused your injury. 

The manufacturer of the truck or its parts, such as brakes and tires, can be held responsible when a defective design or part causes an accident. In addition, the parties that maintained or loaded a truck may also be liable for personal injury if their acts or omissions cause an accident.

Lastly, the government entity that maintains the roadway may be liable if a hazardous road condition causes a truck accident. Such entities may include state, county, or local agencies or departments, depending on the location of the truck accident. 

When multiple parties are at fault for the accident, New Jersey’s comparative negligence law applies, apportioning fault among the parties. You can receive compensation for your injuries if you are no more than 50 percent at fault for the accident. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, you can recover compensation, but your damages will be reduced in proportion to your fault. However, the law does allow an injury victim to recover the full amount of their damages from any party at least 60 percent at fault for the injury.