Three Killed by Tractor-Trailer on New Jersey Turnpike 

Three people died Sunday following a tractor-trailer crash on the New Jersey Turnpike near East Windsor Township. According to the New Jersey State Police, a GMC SUV was on the right shoulder at milepost 64.6. The driver was standing outside the GMC on the right shoulder awaiting assistance, while three passengers – one adult and two juveniles – remained inside the vehicle, police said.

An approaching southbound Peterbilt tractor-trailer veered onto the right shoulder and crashed into the back of the GMC. The driver was struck and killed, along with the adult passenger in the front seat and one juvenile in the back seat. The tractor-trailer driver sustained only minor injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. 

The crash remains under investigation, and no additional information has been released.

Crashes involving disabled vehicles on the shoulder are among the most dangerous situations on major highways. High speeds, limited visibility, and driver distraction can make it difficult for approaching motorists – especially tractor-trailers – to react in time. Safety experts urge drivers to move their vehicles as far from travel lanes as possible, activate hazard lights, and remain inside with seat belts fastened until help arrives whenever it is safe to do so.

Tractor-trailer collisions on the New Jersey Turnpike often lead to catastrophic outcomes due to the weight and size discrepancies between vehicles. When a truck drifts onto the shoulder, even momentary inattention or fatigue can have devastating results. Drivers should reduce speed and move over when passing stopped vehicles to help prevent tragedies like this one.

Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. is a full-service law firm. If you or a loved one have been injured, call today at 732-247-3600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With office locations in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the state.