A tractor-trailer driver lost control of their vehicle while traveling southbound on the New Jersey Turnpike, according to police reports. Initial information states that several vehicles were involved in the accident, which occurred on a Friday evening before 4 p.m.
Helicopter images showed a large tractor-trailer lying across three lanes of the highway, along with the median on its side. The other vehicles had damage related to the accident. It took several hours for the police to clear the area. At the time of the initial report, it was not clear what caused the tractor-trailer to lose control over the vehicle.
Why Tractor Trailers Overturn on Highways
There are many potential reasons why tractor-trailers overturn. These vehicles are traveling at a high rate of speed, pulling as much as 80,000 pounds of material in them. If the driver swerves or the cargo dislodges, that is all it takes for the vehicle to lose stability. Some of the most common concerns include vehicles that are not maintained, causing brakes and tires to fail, or fatigued drivers who have been behind the wheel for a long period of time. The truck may lose control if the driver tries to stop quickly, often leading to jackknifing, or if someone cuts off the driver, forcing them to maneuver at high speed.
Let Us Find Out What Happened to You
Our tractor-trailer accident lawyer in New Jersey is ready to help you. Turn to Kwartler Manus for a free consultation now.