18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Gloucester County, New Jersey

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Your Life Forever, We’re Here to Fight for You

The New Jersey Turnpike cuts through Gloucester County like an artery, pumping thousands of commercial trucks through our communities every single day. When one of those 80,000-pound rigs loses control on I-295 near Deptford, or a fatigued driver drifts across the center line on Route 42 in Washington Township, the results are catastrophic. Your sedan weighs 4,000 pounds. The truck that hit you weighs twenty times that. That’s not a fair fight—and when trucking companies cut corners to boost their profits, innocent families in Gloucester County pay the price.

We’ve seen what happens next. The trucking company’s rapid-response team arrives before the ambulance leaves. Their insurance adjuster calls you within hours, asking for a recorded statement while you’re still in shock. They hope you don’t know your rights. They hope you don’t know that black box data proving their driver was speeding can be overwritten in thirty days. They hope you don’t know that in Gloucester County, you have just two years to file your claim—but waiting even a week can destroy your case.

We’re Attorney911. For over 25 years, Ralph Manginello has fought for trucking accident victims across the United States, including right here in Gloucester County, New Jersey. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who used to work for the very companies we’re fighting against. He knows their playbooks. He knows how they calculate lowball offers. And now he uses that insider knowledge to maximize your recovery. We’ve recovered over $50 million for families devastated by commercial truck crashes, including multi-million dollar settlements for traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and wrongful death.

But here’s the thing—evidence disappears fast. If you or someone you love was hurt in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Gloucester County, from West Deptford to Franklin Township, you need to call us now. Not tomorrow. Not after you talk to the insurance company. Right now. Dial 1-888-ATTY-911 or (888) 288-9911 for a free consultation available 24/7. We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence, and we work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.

Why Gloucester County 18-Wheeler Accidents Demand Specialized Legal Expertise

Gloucester County isn’t just any stretch of highway. We’re part of the Northeast Corridor, the busiest freight transportation network in the United States. The convergence of I-76, I-295, Route 55, and the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) creates a perfect storm of commercial traffic. Trucks heading to the Port of Newark-Elizabeth—a top-three container port on the East Coast—cut through our county. Distribution centers in Swedesboro, warehouses in Logan Township, and the industrial parks along I-295 attract massive freight volume.

This geography creates unique dangers. The New Jersey Turnpike narrows through Gloucester County, squeezing 18-wheelers into lanes barely wide enough for their mirrors. The I-295 corridor handles north-south freight traffic while dodging local commuter vehicles entering from Mullica Hill or Glassboro. Route 42 feeds directly into the Atlantic City Expressway, creating a bottleneck where local traffic mixes with long-haul trucks heading to the casinos and resorts. And Route 55, despite being one of the safest highways in the state, still sees devastating crashes when trucks drift from the southbound lanes near Exit 50.

In Gloucester County, we see specific patterns. The Walt Whitman Bridge approach through Gloucester City brings thousands of trucks daily from Philadelphia into New Jersey. The Delaware Memorial Bridge feeds I-295 with interstate traffic. These aren’t just local delivery trucks—these are 53-foot trailers operated by drivers who’ve been on the road for eleven hours straight, pushing federal limits, often using the New Jersey Turnpike corridor as their final sprint to the ports or distribution centers.

New Jersey law gives you two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit—but that doesn’t mean you should wait. Under New Jersey Revised Statutes § 2A:14-2, the clock starts ticking immediately. And unlike some states, New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule (§ 2A:15-5.1). If you’re found more than 50% at fault, you recover nothing. Even at 50% fault, your damages get reduced by half. The trucking companies know this. They’ll try to shift blame onto you, claiming you were speeding on I-80 or changed lanes abruptly on I-78. Without immediate preservation of ECM data and ELD logs, you can’t prove they’re lying.

That’s why our Gloucester County clients need an attorney who understands federal trucking regulations—the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules codified in 49 CFR Parts 390-399. These aren’t just traffic violations. When a truck driver violates the 11-hour driving limit (49 CFR § 395.3), or skips the mandatory 30-minute break after 8 hours, or when a trucking company fails to maintain the Driver Qualification File (49 CFR § 391.51), that’s negligence. That’s evidence we use to prove your case.

The Ten Potentially Liable Parties in Your Gloucester County Trucking Accident

Most law firms only look at the driver. That’s a mistake that can cost you millions. In 18-wheeler accidents, liability spreads like a web across multiple corporations, contractors, and entities. We investigate every single one because more defendants means more insurance coverage, and more coverage means full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

1. The Truck Driver

The person behind the wheel is the obvious starting point. We dig into their qualification file to see if they had a valid CDL, whether they passed their last medical exam (required every 24 months under 49 CFR § 391.45), and if they have a history of FMCSA violations. In Gloucester County, we frequently encounter drivers who’ve been awake for 14+ hours running the I-95 corridor from Virginia to New York. When they cause a jackknife on the New Jersey Turnpike near Exit 2, we subpoena their Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data to prove they violated the Hours of Service regulations (49 CFR Part 395).

We also look for distraction. Federal law prohibits hand-held mobile phone use by commercial drivers (49 CFR § 392.82). Cell phone records can prove they were texting while crossing the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Impairment is another factor—commercial drivers face a stricter 0.04 BAC limit (49 CFR § 392.5) compared to the 0.08 standard for passenger vehicles. If the driver failed a post-accident drug or alcohol test, that’s automatic liability.

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Under respondeat superior, employers are responsible for their employees’ negligent acts. But we don’t stop at vicarious liability. We pursue direct negligence claims for:

• Negligent Hiring: Did they check the driver’s three-year driving history as required by 49 CFR § 391.23?
• Negligent Training: Did they provide adequate safety training, or did they just hand over the keys?
• Negligent Supervision: Did they monitor ELD data showing HOS violations?
• Negligent Maintenance: Did they skip brake inspections required by 49 CFR § 396.3?

Trucking companies operating in Gloucester County carry significant insurance—often $750,000 to $1,000,000 for general freight, and up to $5,000,000 for hazardous materials. But they’ll hide behind shell companies or claim the driver was an “independent contractor.” We pierce that veil. If the company controlled the driver’s routes, schedule, and equipment, they’re liable regardless of what they call the relationship.

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that loaded the truck may share liability. Under 49 CFR § 393.100, cargo must be secured to prevent shifting that affects vehicle stability. When a truck overturns on the curve of I-295 near Route 322 in Harrison Township, we examine whether the cargo owner demanded an overweight load or failed to properly distribute 40,000 pounds of freight. Improper loading causes rollovers, and the shipper is often responsible.

4. The Loading Company

Third-party warehouses in Logan Township or distribution centers in West Deptford often handle the physical loading. If they failed to use proper tiedowns (required to withstand 0.8g deceleration forward per 49 CFR § 393.102), or if they overloaded the trailer beyond its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), they share the blame. Overweight trucks brake slower—a critical factor on steep grades like those approaching the Delaware Memorial Bridge.

5. The Truck Manufacturer

Defective design kills. If the truck lacked adequate underride guards (49 CFR § 393.86), or if the braking system failed due to a manufacturing defect, we pursue product liability claims against manufacturers like Freightliner, Peterbilt, or Volvo. The NHTSA maintains recalls—we check if the truck in your Gloucester County accident had unaddressed safety defects.

6. The Parts Manufacturer

Tire blowouts cause nearly 30% of truck crashes. If a Goodyear, Michelin, or Bridgestone tire failed due to a manufacturing defect, the parts maker is liable. Same for defective brakes, steering components, or coupling devices. We preserve the failed components for metallurgical analysis.

7. The Maintenance Company

Trucks require systematic inspection under 49 CFR § 396.3. When a truck crashes on I-76 due to brake failure, we subpoena maintenance records from the shop that last serviced it. Did they adjust the air brakes properly? Did they document the annual inspection required by 49 CFR § 396.17? Third-party maintenance companies often cut corners to save costs.

8. The Freight Broker

Companies like C.H. Robinson or XPO Logistics arrange transportation but don’t own the trucks. They can be liable under negligent selection theories if they hired a carrier with a terrible safety record—known as a “chameleon carrier” that changes names to hide violations. We check the broker’s due diligence before assigning a load to a driver heading to Gloucester County.

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator situations, the person who owns the tractor may be different from the company hauling the freight. We pursue both under negligent entrustment theories if the owner knew the driver was unqualified or had a history of crashes.

10. Government Entities

The New Jersey Department of Transportation maintains our highways. If poor road design contributed to your accident—like inadequate signage on the I-295/I-76 interchange, or failure to install guardrails on dangerous curves—we pursue claims against government entities. Note: New Jersey’s Tort Claims Act (§ 59:1-1 et seq.) requires filing a notice of claim within 90 days of the accident. This is critical—miss this deadline, and you lose your right to sue the State or local municipality, even if you still have time for the private defendants.

The Devastating Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Gloucester County

Not all truck accidents are the same. Our location—sandwiched between Philadelphia, the Port of Newark-Elizabeth, and the Atlantic Ocean—creates specific risks. Here are the accident types we see most often in Gloucester County, and how federal regulations specifically address each one.

Rear-End Collisions on the New Jersey Turnpike

The New Jersey Turnpike through Gloucester County is notorious for sudden stops. A fully loaded 18-wheeler traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. When traffic backs up at Exit 2, Exit 3, or the merge with I-295, trucks following too closely cause catastrophic rear-end collisions.

Under 49 CFR § 392.11, truck drivers must maintain a “reasonable and prudent” following distance. The FMCSA recommends one second of following distance for every 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds under 40 mph, and double that in adverse conditions. In Gloucester County’s winter weather—when black ice forms on the Turnpike or fog rolls in from the Delaware River—this rule is critical.

Rear-end truck crashes often cause underride—where the passenger vehicle slides under the trailer. Despite federal requirements for rear impact guards (49 CFR § 393.86), many guards fail at speeds above 35 mph. The results are decapitations and spinal cord injuries. We recently consulted on a case near Deptford where a family sedan was crushed under a trailer on I-295—the driver suffered permanent paralysis.

Jackknife Accidents on I-295 Curves

The sweeping curves of I-295 through Mantua and East Greenwich Township become death traps when truck drivers brake improperly. A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab, blocking multiple lanes. These often happen when drivers hit the brakes too hard on wet pavement or when lightly loaded trailers lack the weight to maintain traction.

Federal rules under 49 CFR § 393.48 require anti-lock braking systems (ABS) on all air-braked trucks. When drivers disable these systems or when maintenance companies fail to repair them, jackknives happen. We subpoena the Electronic Control Module (ECM) data to show exactly when the driver braked, how hard, and whether the ABS functioned properly.

Rollover Accidents on Route 55 and Route 42

Route 55 cuts through rural Gloucester County with higher speed limits, but the curves near Exit 50 and the transitions to Route 42 create rollover risks. Trucks rollover when:

• Speeding on curves (violating 49 CFR § 392.6)
• Improperly loaded cargo shifts (violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136)
• Driver fatigue causes overcorrection

Rollovers are particularly dangerous near the Walt Whitman Bridge approaches, where trucks navigate tight turns onto I-676. When a tanker carrying fuel or chemicals rolls over—common given the refineries near Gloucester County—the resulting fires cause severe burns and require hazmat evacuation of entire neighborhoods like Center City or Westville.

Blind Spot Collisions on Local Roads

Gloucester County’s mix of truck routes and local streets creates deadly blind spot scenarios. Trucks have massive “No-Zones”—20 feet directly in front, 30 feet behind, and large areas on both sides. On Delsea Drive (Route 47) or Black Horse Pike (Route 168), trucks making wide right turns into distribution centers often strike vehicles or cyclists in their right-side blind spot.

Federal regulations under 49 CFR § 393.80 require trucks to have mirrors providing a clear view to the rear. Modern trucks should also have blind spot monitoring systems. When drivers fail to check these mirrors or when trucking companies disable safety systems, they violate their duty of care.

Tire Blowouts on I-76 and I-195

Extreme summer heat on I-76—the primary route from Philadelphia to Atlantic City—causes tire blowouts. Under 49 CFR § 393.75, truck tires must have minimum tread depths (4/32-inch for steer tires, 2/32-inch for others) and cannot have visible defects. Pre-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.13) must include tire checks.

When a steer tire blows at 70 mph on the Atlantic City Expressway connector, the driver often loses control, causing multi-vehicle pileups. The rubber fragments—called “road gators”—pose secondary hazards to following vehicles.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems contribute to approximately 29% of large truck crashes. In Gloucester County, we see this frequently on the steep grades approaching the Delaware Memorial Bridge on I-295 northbound. Drivers who ride their brakes instead of using proper gear descending generate brake fade—overheating that reduces stopping power.

Federal rules under 49 CFR § 393.40-55 mandate specific brake systems and adjustments. Post-trip inspection reports (49 CFR § 396.11) require drivers to document brake defects. When trucking companies ignore these reports to keep trucks moving, catastrophic failures occur.

Cargo Spill Accidents

Given Gloucester County’s proximity to the Port of Newark-Elizabeth and the Paulsboro Refinery, we see numerous tanker trucks and container haulers. When cargo spills—whether it’s a tanker leaking fuel on I-295 or a container of consumer goods spilling across the Turnpike—the trucking company, cargo owner, and loader may all share liability under federal securement regulations.

Underride and Override Collisions

Underrides occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the trailer from the rear or side. Side underride guards aren’t federally mandated (though legislation is pending), but rear guards are required under 49 CFR § 393.86. Override accidents happen when a truck rides over a smaller vehicle in front—often due to brake failure or distracted driving. Both are almost always fatal or result in catastrophic head trauma.

Head-On Collisions

On two-lane highways like County Route 551 or Route 45 through Mantua and Harrison Townships, fatigued truckers drift across the center line. The Federal Highway Administration reports that head-on collisions involving heavy trucks have an 85% fatality rate for occupants of the smaller vehicle. ELD data showing hours-of-service violations (49 CFR Part 395) often proves the driver was too tired to be behind the wheel.

The Federal Regulations That Protect Gloucester County Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) creates the rules of the road for commercial trucks. When trucking companies violate these, they endanger everyone in Gloucester County. Here are the critical regulations we use to prove negligence in your case.

49 CFR Part 390 – General Applicability

These rules apply to all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) operating in interstate commerce with a GVWR over 10,001 pounds, or any vehicle placarded for hazardous materials. Even intrastate New Jersey carriers must comply with most safety regulations. If the truck that hit you met these criteria, these federal rules apply.

49 CFR Part 391 – Driver Qualifications

Trucking companies cannot hire just anyone to drive an 80,000-pound vehicle. Under § 391.11, drivers must:

• Be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce
• Speak and read English sufficiently to communicate with the public and law enforcement
• Be physically qualified per § 391.41 (no insulin-dependent diabetes, no epilepsy, visual acuity of at least 20/40)
• Possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

We subpoena the Driver Qualification File (DQ File) required under § 391.51. This file must contain:

• The employment application
• Three years of driving history investigation
• Annual driving record reviews
• Medical examiner’s certificates
• Drug and alcohol test results

Missing documents prove negligent hiring. If a Gloucester County trucking company hired a driver with a suspended CDL or a history of DUIs—both discoverable in the DQ File—they’re liable for putting a dangerous driver on the road.

49 CFR Part 392 – Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

This section contains the “rules of the road” for truckers:

• § 392.3: No driving while fatigued or impaired by illness
• § 392.4: No drugs or Schedule I substances
• § 392.5: No alcohol within four hours of driving, and 0.04% BAC limit (half the standard)
• § 392.6: No speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• § 392.11: Maintain safe following distances
• § 392.80: No texting while driving
• § 392.82: No hand-held mobile phone use

Violations of these rules are negligence per se in New Jersey courts. If we prove the driver was texting while crossing the Commodore Barry Bridge into Gloucester County, that’s automatic liability.

49 CFR Part 393 – Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operations

This section governs vehicle condition:

• § 393.40-55: Brake system requirements, including automatic adjusters and warning systems
• § 393.75: Tire standards and tread depth
• § 393.80: Mirror requirements
• § 393.100-136: Cargo securement rules

Cargo must be secured to withstand 0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g acceleration rearward, and 0.5g lateral acceleration. When a load shifts on a curve and causes a rollover on Route 55, we check if the tiedowns met these federal standards.

49 CFR Part 395 – Hours of Service (HOS)

This is the most commonly violated regulation leading to crashes:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: No driving beyond the 11th hour after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Once on duty, the driver cannot drive after the 14th consecutive hour
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limits: No driving after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: To reset the weekly clock, drivers need 34 consecutive hours off

Since December 18, 2017, all trucks must have Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) under § 395.8. These devices—tamper-resistant and synced to the truck’s engine—provide irrefutable evidence of Hours of Service violations. In a recent Gloucester County case, ELD data showed a driver had been on duty for 16 hours straight when he caused a jackknife on I-295. That violation proved punitive damages were warranted.

49 CFR Part 396 – Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Trucking companies must “systematically inspect, repair, and maintain” their vehicles under § 396.3. Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections (§ 396.13) and file Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) after each day (§ 396.11) noting any defects in brakes, lights, tires, or steering.

Annual inspections are required under § 396.17 by qualified inspectors. We obtain these records to see if the trucking company deferred maintenance to save money—putting profits over safety on Gloucester County roads.

Catastrophic Injuries: The Real Cost of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Gloucester County

When an 80,000-pound truck hits a 4,000-pound car, the physics are brutal. The force equals mass times acceleration, meaning the truck carries roughly 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger vehicle. This disparity creates catastrophic, life-altering injuries that require millions in lifetime care.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

We’ve handled TBI cases resulting from 18-wheeler accidents throughout Gloucester County, from crashes on the New Jersey Turnpike to rollovers on Route 42. Brain injuries range from mild concussions to severe diffuse axonal injuries. Symptoms include:

• Memory loss and cognitive impairment
• Personality changes and mood disorders
• Chronic headaches and dizziness
• Inability to concentrate or hold employment
• Loss of executive function

TBI victims often cannot return to their previous careers. As client Glenda Walker told us after we recovered compensation for her family, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” That’s critical because TBI care costs range from $85,000 to $3,000,000 over a lifetime.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

The force of a truck impact often damages the spinal column. Paraplegia (loss of legs) and quadriplegia (loss of all four limbs) are common outcomes. The lifetime cost of quadriplegia exceeds $5 million. These injuries require:

• Wheelchairs and adaptive vehicles
• Home modifications (ramps, widened doorways)
• Personal care attendants
• Ongoing medical treatment for complications like pressure sores and infections

Amputations

Crushing injuries often necessitate limb amputation, either traumatic (at the scene) or surgical (due to tissue damage). Victims face:

• Multiple prosthetics over their lifetime ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Phantom limb pain requiring medication
• Occupational therapy to relearn daily activities
• Career changes due to physical limitations

Severe Burns

Tanker truck explosions—common given Gloucester County’s proximity to refineries and chemical plants—cause third and fourth-degree burns. These require skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and leave permanent scarring and disability.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill, families are left with funeral expenses, lost income, and the irreplaceable loss of companionship. Under New Jersey’s Wrongful Death Act (§ 2A:31-1), beneficiaries can recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial costs

Our firm has recovered settlements ranging from $1.9 million to $9.5 million for wrongful death cases involving commercial vehicles. While no amount brings back a loved one, financial security allows families to grieve without the added stress of medical debt and lost income.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Here’s the truth that trucking companies don’t want you to know: evidence disappears fast. And they’re already working to make it disappear.

Within hours of a crash on the New Jersey Turnpike or I-295, the trucking company dispatches a rapid-response team. Their job isn’t to help you—it’s to protect the company. They secure the black box data before police finish their investigation. They interview the driver and coach him on what to say. They repair the truck before anyone can inspect the brakes.

You have a narrow window to preserve the evidence that wins cases. Here’s what disappears:

ECM and ELD Data

The Electronic Control Module (ECM) and Event Data Recorder (EDR) capture:

• Speed before impact
• Brake application timing and pressure
• Throttle position
• Engine RPM
• Seatbelt usage
• Crash severity (delta-V)

This data overwrites in as little as 30 days with new driving events. Some systems overwrite in 7 days. The Electronic Logging Device showing Hours of Service violations must be downloaded immediately—trucking companies control this data.

Dashcam and Surveillance Footage

Many trucks have forward-facing and driver-facing cameras. This footage shows exactly what the driver was doing in the seconds before impact—whether they were texting, eating, or simply not watching the road. However, most systems auto-delete after 7 to 14 days unless preserved.

Physical Evidence

The truck itself is evidence. If it’s repaired or sold, we lose the ability to inspect brake systems, tire conditions, and maintenance defects. The Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) filed after the crash is critical—if the driver noted defects, it proves the company knew about problems.

Witness Statements

Memories fade. The driver who saw the truck run the red light on Delsea Drive will remember details better 48 hours after the crash than 48 days later. We canvas the area immediately, knocking on doors at nearby businesses and homes to find security cameras and eyewitnesses.

What We Do Immediately

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911 within 48 hours of your Gloucester County trucking accident, we:

1. Send Spoliation Letters to the trucking company, their insurer, any maintenance companies, and the cargo owner. These legal notices put them on notice that destroying evidence will result in court sanctions, adverse inference instructions (the jury will be told to assume destroyed evidence was harmful to the defense), and punitive damages.

2. Subpoena ELD and ECM Data before it can be overwritten.

3. Inspect the Truck before it’s repaired, documenting brake conditions, tire wear, and lighting compliance.

4. Obtain the Driver Qualification File to check for CDL violations, medical certification issues, or prior crashes.

5. Secure Scene Evidence including skid mark measurements, debris fields, and road conditions.

6. Download GPS Data showing the truck’s exact route and speed history.

As client Chad Harris said about our approach: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We treat your case with the urgency it deserves because we know what’s at stake.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Gloucester County, New Jersey

What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Gloucester County?

First, ensure your safety and call 911. New Jersey law requires reporting accidents with injury or significant property damage. If possible, photograph everything—the truck’s DOT number (usually on the door), license plates, damage to all vehicles, the accident scene, and your injuries. Get witness contact information. Do NOT give a recorded statement to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. Then, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a trucking accident in New Jersey?

Under New Jersey Revised Statutes § 2A:14-2, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death, the clock starts running from the date of death (§ 2A:31-3). However, if a government entity is involved—such as NJDOT for poor road design—you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days. Do not wait until the deadline approaches. Evidence disappears much faster than the statute of limitations.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

New Jersey follows modified comparative negligence (§ 2A:15-5.1). You can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault. However, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you have $100,000 in damages but are found 20% at fault, you recover $80,000. If you’re 51% at fault or higher, you recover nothing. The trucking company will try to blame you—this is why we preserve ECM data and ELD logs to prove the truck driver was the primary cause.

Who can be held liable besides the truck driver?

Unlike car accidents involving just two drivers, 18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple liable parties: the trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, truck manufacturer, parts manufacturer, maintenance company, and freight broker. We investigate all potential defendants to maximize your recovery. As client Donald Wilcox discovered when other firms rejected his case: “Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

What is the truck’s “black box” and why is it important?

Commercial trucks contain Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that capture objective data about the crash: speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes. This data is tamper-resistant and often contradicts the driver’s story. It overwrites within 30 days, which is why we send preservation letters immediately.

How much is my Gloucester County truck accident case worth?

Value depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and available insurance. Federal law requires trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance of $750,000 for general freight, $1 million for oil and hazardous materials, and $5 million for certain hazmat loads. Many carry more. We’ve recovered settlements ranging from $1.9 million to $9.8 million for serious injuries, and up to $9.5 million for wrongful death. As Kiimarii Yup told us after we resolved her case: “I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return.”

What if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster calls me?

Do not speak with them. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may ask for a recorded statement and use your words against you—claiming you admitted fault or downplayed your injuries. Tell them to contact your attorney. Better yet, let us handle all communications from day one.

Do I need a lawyer if the trucking company admitted fault?

Yes. Fault admission doesn’t guarantee fair compensation. Insurance companies often admit liability but dispute the extent of damages, claiming your injuries are pre-existing or not as severe as you claim. They lowball settlements before you understand the full extent of your injuries. An experienced attorney ensures you receive compensation for future medical needs and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

How long will my case take?

Simple cases with clear liability may resolve in 6-12 months. Complex trucking cases involving multiple defendants, catastrophic injuries, or disputed liability can take 18-36 months. We work to resolve cases efficiently while ensuring maximum recovery. As client Angel Walle noted: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

What are contingency fees, and how do they work?

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront. Our standard fee is 33.33% if the case settles before trial, and 40% if it goes to trial. We advance all costs for investigation, expert witnesses, and litigation. You never pay out of pocket. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

Do you handle Spanish-speaking clients in Gloucester County?

Absolutamente. Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Many of Gloucester County’s trucking industry workers and accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. We ensure nothing is lost in translation. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

This is a common defense, but it often fails. Under federal law, if the trucking company controlled the driver’s schedule, routes, or equipment, or if the driver is part of their regular operations, the company is liable regardless of tax status. We examine lease agreements and operational control to establish liability.

Can I still recover if the truck had a mechanical failure?

Yes. Mechanical failures often indicate negligence. If the failure resulted from poor maintenance, the trucking company and maintenance provider are liable. If it was a manufacturing defect, the truck or parts manufacturer is liable. We preserve failed components for expert analysis.

What evidence do I need to prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We obtain ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data showing Hours of Service violations. We also review dispatch records, toll receipts, and fuel receipts to show the driver was on the road longer than legally permitted. Cell phone records can show late-night calls indicating lack of sleep.

Why Gloucester County Chooses Attorney911 for 18-Wheeler Accidents

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than a lawyer—you need a fighter. Here’s why families across Gloucester County, from Mullica Hill to Woodbury, Washington Township to West Deptford, choose Attorney911.

25+ Years of Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello isn’t just any personal injury attorney. Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas (and licensed in New York), he brings federal court experience to every interstate trucking case. Why does this matter? Many trucking companies operate across state lines, meaning your case might belong in federal court where the rules are stricter and the stakes higher. Ralph has been litigating complex commercial cases since 1998, including involvement in the BP Texas City Refinery explosion litigation—a $2.1 billion disaster that demonstrated his ability to take on Fortune 500 corporations.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Lupe Peña spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He sat in the meetings where adjusters decided how to minimize claims. He learned the algorithms they use to calculate lowball offers. Now, he turns that insider knowledge against them. When the trucking company’s insurer offers $50,000 for a traumatic brain injury, Lupe knows that’s not even close to the reserve they’ve set aside. He knows when they’re bluffing. He knows when they’ll pay more. That advantage translates directly to higher settlements for our clients.

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

Many “billboard” law firms reject complex trucking cases if they don’t see an easy six-figure fee. We don’t. As client Greg Garcia shared: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.” We have the resources to litigate against major carriers like Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and Coca-Cola. We don’t fear deep-pocketed defendants—we pursue them.

Personalized Attention, Not Case Mill Treatment

You’re not a file number to us. You’re family. As client Chad Harris put it: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” Ralph Manginello personally oversees major cases. You get his cell phone number. When you call, you talk to a lawyer or experienced case manager, not an intern. Our 4.9-star Google rating with over 251 reviews reflects our commitment to communication and results.

Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ Million for traumatic brain injury at a logging company
• $3.8+ Million for partial leg amputation after a car accident
• $2.5+ Million for commercial truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million for maritime/Jones Act back injury
• $10+ Million currently being litigated in our University of Houston hazing lawsuit (2025)

We don’t just settle—we maximize. As client Ernest Cano said: “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”

Immediate Response, 24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen during business hours. That’s why we answer calls day or night. When you dial 1-888-ATTY-911, you reach a real person who can dispatch our rapid response team to Gloucester County immediately. We send spoliation letters within hours, not days, because we know evidence preservation is everything.

Three Offices Serving New Jersey and Beyond

While we’re headquartered in Houston with offices in Austin and Beaumont, Texas, our federal court admission allows us to represent clients nationwide, including throughout Gloucester County, New Jersey. We have the resources of a major firm with the personal attention of a boutique practice.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win—Call Attorney911 Today

Every day you wait, the trucking company gains an advantage. Their lawyers are working. Their insurance adjusters are calculating how little they can pay you. Their maintenance crews are repairing the truck that almost killed you, destroying the evidence of brake failure or worn tires.

In Gloucester County, you have two years to file suit, but you only have days to preserve the evidence that wins cases. The black box data. The ELD logs. The driver qualification file. The maintenance records. Once they’re gone, they’re gone forever—and your case value goes with them.

You don’t have to face this alone. We do the fighting so you can focus on healing. We handle the insurance company harassment. We advance the costs. We carry the financial risk because we believe in your case.

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Gloucester County—whether on the New Jersey Turnpike near Woolwich Township, I-295 through West Deptford, Route 55 near Glassboro, or Route 42 in Turnersville—call us now.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation available 24/7.

Or visit Attorney911.com to chat live with a case manager.

The consultation is free. The advice is priceless. And remember—you pay absolutely nothing unless we win. Zero upfront costs. Zero fees unless we recover for you.

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. We’re Attorney911, and we push back harder.

Ralph Manginello, Esq.
Managing Partner, Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Admitted to State Bars of Texas and New York
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas

1-888-ATTY-911
ralph@atty911.com
lupe@atty911.com