Being involved in a trucking crash can be an overwhelming and traumatic experience. Whether you're the driver, a passenger, or even a bystander, knowing what to do right after the accident happens can make a huge difference in your safety, the safety of others, and the outcome of any legal or insurance claims. Below are the crucial steps you should take immediately after a trucking crash.
1. Check for Injuries and Stay Calm
Your first priority after any crash is to make sure everyone involved is safe. Take a deep breath, and try to stay calm. It's easy to panic, especially if you or someone else is hurt, but staying composed is crucial. Check yourself for injuries and then check on the other people involved—whether it's passengers in your vehicle, the driver of the truck, or anyone else.
If anyone is seriously injured, try to provide comfort and support without moving them (unless there's immediate danger, like fire or explosion). In these cases, it's important to wait for medical professionals to arrive.
2. Call 911 and Report the Accident
Once you've ensured safety and checked for injuries, it's time to call 911. When speaking to the dispatcher, be calm and clear. Provide your exact location, describe the scene of the crash, and give details about the injuries.
The dispatcher may ask for specific information, such as:
- The number of vehicles involved
- Whether anyone is trapped or unconscious
- The condition of the accident scene (e.g., any hazards like fire or spilled fuel)
The sooner you make this call, the faster emergency services can respond.
3. Ensure Everyone is Safe and Move to a Safe Location
If you're physically able to do so and it’s safe, move yourself and others out of the direct path of traffic. This is especially important if you're on a busy highway or interstate, where vehicles may still be passing by quickly. If the vehicles are still drivable, move them to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and reduce the risk of another accident.
However, do not leave the scene of the accident unless it's necessary to prevent further harm or if you're instructed to by law enforcement. Leaving the scene can result in criminal charges, even if the crash wasn’t your fault.
4. Document the Scene
Once everyone is safe, start documenting the scene of the accident. Take clear, detailed pictures of the crash, including:
- The damage to all vehicles involved
- Any skid marks or debris on the road
- The surrounding environment (e.g., traffic signs, weather conditions, and road conditions)
This documentation will be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings. If you're not physically able to take photos, ask a bystander or passenger to help.
In addition to pictures, make sure you gather important details from the other party involved in the crash:
- Name, address, and phone number of the truck driver and their company
- License plate number and truck’s identification number
- Insurance information (both yours and theirs)
- Truck driver’s commercial driver's license (CDL) number and license details
- Truck registration and any other relevant details
5. Avoid Admitting Fault
It’s important to avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault for the accident. Even if you think the crash might have been partially your fault, don’t discuss blame at the scene. Focus on exchanging information and getting medical attention if needed. In many cases, fault will be determined later by insurance companies or law enforcement based on evidence and investigation.
Do not engage in arguments or confrontations with the truck driver or other people involved. Keep your interactions polite and neutral.
6. File a Police Report
In many jurisdictions, a police report is required for accidents involving significant damage or injury. Even if the crash seems minor, filing a police report is crucial, especially in accidents involving large commercial trucks. Law enforcement officers will document the scene, interview witnesses, and create an official report, which can be vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Make sure to get a copy of the police report or at least the report number. This document can be requested later to support your case with your insurance company or in court.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
After you've made sure the scene is safe and the police are involved, call your insurance company to report the accident. Be honest and thorough when providing them with the details of the crash. Your insurance company will guide you through the process of filing a claim and help you navigate the next steps.
Keep in mind that trucking accidents often involve more complex insurance claims because of the involvement of commercial vehicles. You might also have to deal with the truck company’s insurance, which can be challenging. Your insurer will likely have advice on how to handle this.
8. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured right after the crash, it’s important to see a doctor. Sometimes, injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Seeing a healthcare provider as soon as possible ensures that any injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. A medical examination also helps you establish a record of your injuries, which is vital for insurance claims and legal matters.
9. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured in the crash or if you're facing any complex issues with insurance claims, it may be wise to contact a personal injury lawyer who specializes in trucking accidents. Commercial truck accidents often involve more intricate legal processes because they may involve multiple parties (the truck driver, the trucking company, and insurance companies). A lawyer can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and ensure that you're fairly compensated.
10. Follow Up and Keep Records
After the accident, it's essential to keep a detailed record of everything. This includes medical bills, repair invoices, and any communications you have with insurance companies or legal representatives. If you're dealing with long-term injury recovery, tracking your progress and maintaining records will help support your case.
Conclusion
A trucking accident can be a terrifying experience, but taking the right steps afterward can make a big difference in how things turn out. Stay calm, prioritize safety, document the scene, and involve the appropriate professionals. By following these steps, you can protect your health, your rights, and your future.
If you or a loved one have received injuries in an trucking crash, contact the experienced trucking crash attorneys at Clawson & Clawson, LLP. Our legal team has years of experience handling auto collision cases and will work diligently to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a no-obligation case evaluation