Being involved in an accident with a massive commercial truck, such as a semi-truck or an 18-wheeler, is a terrifying and chaotic experience. Due to the size discrepancy, passenger car occupants often sustain serious, life-altering injuries.
In the aftermath of such a crash, you may be in shock, but the actions you take in the minutes, hours, and days following the collision are critical. They not only protect your health but also form the foundation of any future legal claim for compensation. Knowing exactly what to do after a truck accident can make all the difference.
Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this difficult situation safely and effectively.
Before worrying about insurance or evidence, ensure you and your passengers are out of immediate danger. Secondary crashes on busy highways are highly common and extremely dangerous.
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If your car is drivable and you are on a busy highway, carefully pull over to the shoulder. Turn on your hazard lights.
Always call the police. The responding officer will create an official police report, which documents the details of the crash, statements from both drivers, and initial fault determinations.
Use your smartphone to photograph the damage to all vehicles, the position of the vehicles on the road, skid marks, traffic signals, and the truck's license plates and USDOT numbers printed on the cab door.
Get the truck driver's name, phone number, commercial driver's license (CDL) info, and the trucking company's insurance policy details.
Ask bystanders who witnessed the crash for their names and phone numbers. Independent witness statements are highly valuable.
Go to a doctor or emergency room right away, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline masks injuries, and delayed treatment can hurt your medical recovery and insurance claim.
Never give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement without consulting a lawyer. The trucking company's insurance representatives want to minimize what they pay you.
Truck accidents involve complex federal regulations and multiple potentially liable parties. An experienced attorney will preserve vital data (like black box logs) and fight for your rights.