New Jersey State Police reported that two tractor trailers were in an accident that tied up traffic on Interstate 287 South near a bridge that crosses the Wanaque River. One of the trucks ended up going off the road and was severely damaged. The other tractor trailer jackknifed and wound up blocking three lanes of traffic on the busy roadway. Torrential rainfall made it challenging for those who responded to the accident.
The Aug. 28 truck accident caused concern for the authorities because they feared that the Polychlorinated Biphenyls that one of the trucks was transporting had found their way into the environment. PCBs are considered hazardous if they are mishandled.
It took authorities about 12 hours to reopen the roadway after the 1:48 p.m. accident as health investigators determined the likelihood of PCB hazards and the road was cleared. The highway opened completely at about 3:04 a.m. Although no one reported injuries in this crash, passing motorists noted on Facebook that they experienced delays upwards of 2 1/2 hours. They also reported seeing a truck that had crossed the fence and was laying on its side.
Those who have been injured in a trucking accident may be struggling to pay their bills. Loss of wages can create an uncomfortable financial situation for a household trying to meet its monthly expenses. Increasing medical bills can also add stress. An attorney who has experience in motor vehicle and truck accidents may be able to help those seeking compensation. A lawyer might obtain records from authorities as well as interview witnesses in order to negotiate with insurance companies for a settlement.
Source: North Jersey, “Double truck accident closes down Wanaque area highway”, Donna Rolando, September 02, 2013