Denville Township, NJ (September 8, 2026) – Two drivers were injured after a tractor-trailer overturned across the median of Interstate 80 and was struck by a car early Monday morning, September 7, in Denville Township.
New Jersey State Police troopers responded to the crash at approximately 3:45 a.m. on eastbound I-80 near milepost 40. A preliminary investigation found that the tractor-trailer was traveling east when its driver lost directional control, veered off the roadway, struck the center median, and overturned across the median into the westbound lanes.
A Hyundai sedan traveling west then struck the overturned tractor-trailer. Following the impact, the tractor-trailer caught fire and became engulfed in flames, according to state police.
Both drivers sustained minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital. Members of the Denville Volunteer Fire Department and other emergency responders assisted at the scene.
Our thoughts are with both drivers injured in this crash and their loved ones. We wish both injured individuals a full and speedy recovery.
What Should Drivers Know About Tractor-Trailer Crashes?
Tractor-trailers are substantially larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, which can make crashes involving them particularly dangerous. Their size also affects how quickly they can stop, change direction, or recover from a loss of control. Drivers sharing the road with large trucks should allow additional space and avoid staying alongside them for longer than necessary.
A tractor-trailer that leaves its lane or roadway can create hazards across multiple lanes of traffic. Motorists approaching a stopped or overturned truck should slow down and be prepared for debris, emergency vehicles, or sudden changes in traffic patterns. Maintaining a safe following distance can provide more time to react if conditions change unexpectedly.
Vehicle fires can add another layer of danger after a crash because smoke, flames, and damaged vehicles can affect visibility and roadway access. Drivers should never attempt to pass through an area where emergency crews are working or where fire and debris are present. Remaining attentive and following traffic directions can help reduce the risk of additional collisions.