Legal Guidance for Victims of the Burlington Truck Accident
A serious truck accident on June 5, 2025, disrupted traffic and left multiple people injured along Interstate 95 in Burlington, Massachusetts. According to CBS News Boston, the crash involved a large commercial truck and several passenger vehicles, forcing emergency crews to shut down the highway and reroute traffic during the busy morning commute. As details continue to emerge, the Burlington truck accident raises urgent questions about highway safety, driver negligence, and the rights of those injured in catastrophic collisions.
At Harrington & Harrington, we understand the devastating consequences of truck accidents for victims and their families. These collisions often cause severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardships that can last for years. Our experienced Massachusetts truck accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and hold negligent parties accountable. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in the Burlington truck accident, contact us today on our contact page or call (617) 227-1795 for a free case evaluation.
Details Emerging About the Burlington Truck Accident on Interstate 95
The Burlington truck accident on June 5, 2025, was a multi-vehicle collision that caused major delays and raised serious concerns about commercial truck safety on Massachusetts highways. According to CBS News Boston, the crash involved a tractor-trailer and multiple passenger vehicles on Interstate 95 near Burlington, resulting in extensive wreckage and injuries that required immediate emergency response.
Timeline of the Burlington Truck Accident
The crash occurred shortly before 7 a.m., a peak hour for commuters traveling along Interstate 95 north of Boston. Witnesses described seeing the truck jackknife across several lanes of traffic, striking other vehicles and causing a chain reaction of collisions. State police and local emergency crews arrived quickly to assist victims and manage the chaotic scene.
Location of the Crash on Interstate 95
The accident took place on a stretch of Interstate 95 in Burlington, Massachusetts, near exit ramps that connect to local roads heavily traveled by commuters and commercial trucks. You can view the precise location on Google Maps to understand the congestion and layout of the area where the crash occurred.
This section of I-95 is notorious for heavy traffic, narrow shoulders, and limited space for large trucks to maneuver safely, particularly during busy morning hours. These factors often contribute to serious collisions when truck drivers or other motorists make sudden lane changes or fail to adapt to traffic patterns.
Emergency Response to the Burlington Truck Accident
First responders from the Burlington Fire Department, local EMS, and Massachusetts State Police coordinated a swift rescue effort. They worked to extract occupants trapped in their vehicles and transported injured individuals to area hospitals for urgent medical treatment. Traffic in both directions was backed up for hours as crews cleared the wreckage and investigated the cause of the crash.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation issued traffic alerts urging drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes, emphasizing the significant impact on regional traffic.
Early Reports on Possible Causes
While the official cause of the Burlington truck accident remains under investigation, early reports suggest that driver error, sudden traffic slowdowns, or mechanical failure could have contributed to the crash. Incidents involving large commercial vehicles often involve complex factors, including distracted driving, speeding, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or abrupt lane changes by nearby cars.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) highlights that large trucks require more distance to stop and are vulnerable to rollovers or jackknife accidents when traffic conditions change unexpectedly. Investigators will examine these and other potential causes as they piece together what led to the devastating collision in Burlington.
Serious Injuries Often Resulting from Burlington Truck Accidents
Victims of the Burlington truck accident on Interstate 95 may face life-altering injuries requiring extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term support. Commercial truck collisions can cause catastrophic harm due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles, leaving passenger car occupants especially vulnerable. Understanding the types of injuries that occur in truck accidents helps victims recognize symptoms, seek timely treatment, and document their damages for legal claims.
Traumatic Brain Injuries Can Alter Lives Permanently
Head injuries are among the most severe consequences of a truck accident. When a collision occurs at highway speeds, the force can propel occupants into hard surfaces, causing traumatic brain injuries. Even when airbags deploy, victims can suffer concussions, skull fractures, or intracranial bleeding. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), traumatic brain injuries are a leading cause of long-term disability in motor vehicle crashes.
Medical professionals at facilities like Massachusetts General Hospital emphasize the importance of early evaluation for symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, headaches, or mood changes. These signs can appear hours or days after an accident, and prompt care can reduce the risk of permanent neurological damage.
Concussions and Cognitive Impairment After a Truck Accident
Concussions often result from the sudden acceleration or deceleration forces of a truck crash. Victims may experience dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light, or difficulty concentrating. The Mayo Clinic warns that untreated concussions can lead to lasting cognitive issues, making it critical for anyone involved in a truck accident like the one in Burlington to get checked by a healthcare provider.
Skull Fractures and Hemorrhaging Require Emergency Care
More severe head injuries, such as skull fractures, can cause bleeding around the brain and increased intracranial pressure. These injuries demand immediate intervention to prevent life-threatening complications. Victims treated at trauma centers like Brigham and Women’s Hospital often undergo advanced imaging and surgery to control bleeding and stabilize their condition.
Spinal Cord Injuries Frequently Lead to Paralysis
Truck accidents have a high risk of causing spinal cord trauma due to the extreme forces involved in these collisions. Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, impacting every aspect of a victim’s life. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation notes that spinal cord injuries often require extensive rehabilitation and lifelong care, with victims facing challenges such as loss of mobility, chronic pain, and reduced independence.
Cervical Spine Injuries Affect Breathing and Movement
Injuries to the cervical spine, located in the neck, can disrupt nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Victims may lose the ability to move their arms or legs or even struggle to breathe without assistance. These injuries frequently result in permanent disability and demand specialized care at facilities with spinal injury expertise, such as Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.
Thoracic and Lumbar Spine Fractures Can Cause Severe Disability
Fractures in the thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (lower back) regions often impair movement, bladder and bowel control, and core muscle function. Victims of the Burlington truck accident who suffer these injuries may need surgical stabilization, prolonged physical therapy, and adaptive equipment to regain some level of mobility. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides resources for understanding spinal cord injury treatments and recovery options.
Bone Fractures Are Common in Truck Collision Victims
Truck accidents can crush vehicle frames, causing broken bones throughout the body. The sheer force of impact often results in multiple fractures, known as polytrauma, which can extend hospital stays and delay recovery. According to the Cleveland Clinic, bone fractures are one of the most common injuries seen in emergency rooms following severe motor vehicle accidents.
Compound Fractures Require Immediate Surgical Intervention
Compound fractures occur when a broken bone pierces through the skin, exposing tissue to contaminants and dramatically increasing the risk of infection. These injuries almost always require emergency surgery to clean the wound and stabilize the bone with plates, screws, or rods. Victims may face months of recovery and permanent limitations in mobility or strength.
Pelvic and Femur Fractures Involve High Risks of Internal Bleeding
The pelvis and femur are two of the strongest bones in the body, and breaking them requires substantial force, such as that seen in a high-speed truck crash. Pelvic and femoral fractures can cause life-threatening internal bleeding and nerve damage. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons emphasizes the urgency of diagnosing and treating these injuries immediately to prevent complications like blood clots or long-term disability.
Internal Injuries Are Often Overlooked Yet Life-Threatening
Internal injuries from a truck accident can occur when blunt trauma damages organs or blood vessels. Because these injuries may not be visible externally, they often go undetected until symptoms like abdominal pain, dizziness, or fainting appear. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that internal injuries are among the most fatal consequences of motor vehicle crashes if untreated.
Abdominal Trauma Can Damage Vital Organs
Blunt force from a truck collision can rupture the liver, spleen, kidneys, or intestines, leading to internal bleeding and organ failure. Victims with signs of abdominal trauma must undergo advanced imaging and may require emergency surgery to repair damage and control bleeding. The Johns Hopkins Medicine team recommends immediate evaluation after any high-impact accident.
Chest Injuries Involving the Heart and Lungs
Truck accidents can cause rib fractures that puncture the lungs or heart, resulting in a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening condition where fluid compresses the heart. These injuries demand fast intervention at trauma centers equipped to handle complex thoracic trauma. Victims may need chest tubes, ventilator support, or open-heart surgery, depending on the severity.
Determining Liability in the Burlington Truck Accident on Interstate 95
Understanding who may be held responsible after the Burlington truck accident is essential for victims seeking compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, and other damages. Truck accident cases often involve multiple potentially liable parties, including drivers, trucking companies, vehicle manufacturers, and government agencies. Determining liability requires a careful investigation of each party’s actions before and during the crash, as well as an analysis of federal and state safety regulations.
Truck Drivers May Bear Responsibility for Negligent Actions
Truck drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles with care, especially on busy highways like Interstate 95. When drivers fail to follow traffic laws or engage in reckless behaviors, they can cause catastrophic accidents. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), commercial drivers must adhere to strict safety standards, and violations can establish negligence.
Distracted Driving Contributes to Many Truck Accidents
Distracted driving remains a leading cause of truck collisions nationwide. Truck drivers using phones, adjusting GPS devices, or eating behind the wheel can miss critical changes in traffic flow. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that distraction significantly increases the likelihood of rear-end or multi-vehicle crashes, especially at highway speeds.
Fatigued Truck Drivers Are a Serious Hazard
Driver fatigue is another major contributor to truck accidents. Truckers often work long hours, leading to drowsiness that slows reaction time and impairs judgment. The FMCSA’s Hours of Service Regulations set strict limits on how long drivers can operate without rest. Violations of these rules can expose drivers and their employers to liability.
Trucking Companies May Be Liable for Unsafe Practices
Trucking companies have a responsibility to hire qualified drivers, train them properly, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy. When companies cut corners or ignore safety standards, they can be held liable for accidents caused by their negligence. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines for safe trucking operations, including maintenance protocols and driver fitness evaluations.
Negligent Hiring or Retention of Unqualified Drivers
Employers who fail to screen drivers for prior accidents, drug use, or medical conditions risk putting unqualified individuals behind the wheel of dangerous vehicles. If a trucking company knew or should have known about a driver’s unfitness, it can be held directly responsible for injuries resulting from a crash.
Failure to Maintain Trucks Can Lead to Catastrophic Breakdowns
Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure safety on the road. When trucking companies neglect brake repairs, tire replacements, or other essential upkeep, mechanical failures can trigger accidents like the Burlington truck accident. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) highlights poor maintenance as a common factor in severe truck crashes.
Other Motorists May Share Fault in a Multi-Vehicle Crash
Passenger vehicles involved in the Burlington truck accident may have contributed to the collision through reckless or negligent driving. Cars that cut off trucks, brake suddenly without signaling, or merge unsafely create situations that large trucks cannot avoid. Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence system under M.G.L. c. 231 § 85, allowing victims to recover damages if they are less than 51 percent at fault.
Sudden Lane Changes Can Trigger Chain-Reaction Crashes
Drivers of smaller vehicles often underestimate the distance trucks need to stop or change lanes. A sudden lane change in front of a loaded truck can cause the driver to swerve or brake abruptly, leading to multi-vehicle accidents. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) outlines rules for sharing the road with trucks, emphasizing the importance of giving trucks adequate space.
Government Agencies May Be Liable for Unsafe Road Conditions
If poor highway design, inadequate signage, or neglected road maintenance contributed to the Burlington truck accident, a government entity such as the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) could bear partial responsibility. Examples of hazards include faded lane markings, potholes, or obstructed sightlines that prevent drivers from reacting safely.
Filing Claims Against Public Entities Requires Swift Action
Pursuing a claim against a government agency in Massachusetts requires strict adherence to the Massachusetts Tort Claims Act. Injured parties generally must file notice of their intent to sue within two years of the accident. Failure to meet these deadlines can result in the permanent loss of the right to seek compensation from a public entity.
Truck and Parts Manufacturers May Be Liable for Defects
In some truck accidents, defective vehicle components or design flaws cause or worsen a crash. If a mechanical failure resulted from poor design or manufacturing defects, the truck or parts manufacturer could face strict liability claims. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) oversees recalls and product safety standards for many vehicle components, and a history of recalls may support a victim’s claim.
Defective Brakes or Tires Can Lead to Jackknife Accidents
Brake or tire failures are a leading cause of jackknife crashes involving large trucks. Even with perfect driving, a sudden mechanical breakdown can send a truck skidding sideways across multiple lanes. Victims of the Burlington truck accident may benefit from investigating whether any recalled or defective parts contributed to the crash.
What Victims Should Do After the Burlington Truck Accident
The aftermath of the Burlington truck accident on Interstate 95 can feel overwhelming, especially for those facing serious injuries, vehicle damage, and lost income. Taking the right steps in the hours and days after a truck collision can make a significant difference in protecting your health, preserving evidence, and building a strong legal case for compensation.
Prioritize Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your first priority after a truck accident is to ensure your safety and the safety of anyone else involved. If you can do so without risking further injury, move yourself and passengers out of traffic and call 911. Emergency responders will provide critical medical care and help prevent additional harm. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to undergo a medical evaluation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many injuries, including brain trauma and internal bleeding, do not show symptoms right away.
Adrenaline Can Mask Symptoms of Serious Injuries
After a violent crash, adrenaline and shock may hide pain or other signs of injury. You might not realize the severity of your condition until hours or days later. That’s why the American College of Emergency Physicians recommends that all accident victims get a full medical examination as soon as possible.
Documentation of Injuries Helps Strengthen Your Claim
Accurate medical records provide a clear timeline of your injuries and connect them directly to the Burlington truck accident. This documentation will be vital when you seek compensation from insurance companies or through a personal injury lawsuit.
Contact Law Enforcement and Obtain an Official Accident Report
Massachusetts law requires drivers to report crashes involving injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $1,000. Calling the police ensures that an official report is created, which serves as a crucial piece of evidence. Responding officers will document the scene, interview witnesses, and note factors like vehicle positions or road conditions. The Massachusetts State Police provides resources for requesting copies of crash reports, which your attorney can use when building your case.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
If you are physically able and it’s safe to do so, collect as much evidence as possible before vehicles are moved or debris is cleared. Take clear photos and videos of all vehicles involved, visible injuries, road conditions, weather, skid marks, traffic signs, and anything else that could help establish how the crash occurred. These images may become invaluable for accident reconstruction experts.
Collect Contact Information from Witnesses and Other Drivers
Obtain the names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details of everyone involved in the Burlington truck accident. Speak with witnesses and ask for their contact information, as their statements could support your version of events. The Insurance Information Institute (III) stresses that quick and thorough information gathering helps victims avoid disputes later.
Notify Your Insurance Company but Be Cautious When Speaking
You must report the accident to your insurer promptly to meet policy requirements. However, avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause. Insurance adjusters may twist your words to reduce or deny your claim. Stick to basic facts, such as the time, date, location, and parties involved in the Burlington truck accident. The Massachusetts Division of Insurance outlines your rights when dealing with insurance companies after a crash.
Avoid Signing Any Documents or Accepting Early Settlements
Insurance companies sometimes offer quick settlements that undervalue the true cost of your injuries. Do not sign releases or accept payments without first consulting an experienced attorney. Once you accept an offer, you may forfeit your right to pursue additional compensation.
Consult an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney Right Away
Truck accident cases are far more complex than ordinary car collisions. They often involve federal trucking regulations, corporate insurance policies, and aggressive defense tactics. An experienced lawyer can protect your rights, gather essential evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. The American Bar Association (ABA) advises that victims of truck accidents seek legal representation as soon as possible.
Preserve Evidence Before It Disappears
Truck companies often deploy their own investigators immediately after an accident. Valuable evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, can be altered or lost. A lawyer can send a spoliation letter to preserve this evidence for your case.
Understand Your Legal Options and Maximize Your Compensation
A knowledgeable attorney will explain your rights under Massachusetts personal injury law, negotiate with insurers on your behalf, and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. The team at Harrington & Harrington offers free consultations and works on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they secure a recovery for you.
Get Help Now After the Burlington Truck Accident
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in the Burlington truck accident on Interstate 95, you deserve answers, support, and the compensation needed to rebuild your life. The aftermath of a truck collision can leave victims facing overwhelming medical bills, lost income, pain, and uncertainty about what comes next. At Harrington & Harrington, our experienced Massachusetts truck accident lawyers are here to fight for your rights and hold negligent drivers, trucking companies, and insurers accountable.
Since 1966, our firm has represented injured victims across Massachusetts with compassion, dedication, and aggressive legal advocacy. We understand the complexities of truck accident claims and the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. Let us handle the legal battle so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.
Call Harrington & Harrington today at (617) 227-1795 or visit our website to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. We are available 24/7 and charge no fees unless we win your case. Don’t wait to get the help you need after the Burlington truck accident. Contact us now and take the first step toward justice and recovery.