It’s stressful and daunting to be involved in a commercial truck accident. Regardless of whether you’re driving as a passenger or driving, your focus needs to be protecting yourself safe and sound along with your legal rights. The measures taken during the moment following the accident can make an overwhelmingly positive difference in the fate of insurance claims and any potential court case. Here in this article, we will discuss five vital things to do right away after a commercial vehicle accident and how to manage the situation properly without making those common mistakes that could affect your case.
1. Prioritize Safety and Get Medical Treatment
The first and most significant thing to do in a commercial vehicle accident is to maintain people’s safety. If at all possible, push cars to the side of the road and out of traffic, but do not leave the scene. Check for injuries and call emergency services if necessary. Even if you do not feel hurt or think you are fine, it is wise to have a medical professional check you out. Injuries such as whiplash or internal injuries may not immediately manifest themselves. Seeking medical attention will also help document any injuries, which can be useful for insurance or taking legal action.
2. Document the Scene and Collect Valuable Information
Once it is safe to do so, collect as much information as possible regarding the accident. This includes taking pictures of the scene, the vehicles involved, and the damage. Ensure you obtain the position of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant information. Get contact and insurance details from the other driver, including the license plate number of the commercial vehicle, insurance, and the company that the driver works for. Also, get the details of the witnesses, if any. This documentation will prove to be invaluable in substantiating your version of what happened and helping determine responsibility for the accident.
3. Report the Accident to Authorities
Once safety has been ensured and the required information gathered, reporting the accident to the authorities is essential. Dial the police and report the accident, even if the accident appears minor. A police report is an official record of the incident, which may be vital for insurance companies and legal proceedings. If the commercial vehicle has had any trucking accidents or violations, the authorities can investigate and include that within the report. Ensure you collaborate with the police but refrain from admitting fault or making any statements that will be used against you in the future.
4. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Skipping this step could lead to issues with your claim. Be honest and factual when narrating the accident facts. Pass on all the data you gathered, including photos, the testimony of the witnesses, and the police report, to the insurance company. If the commercial motor vehicle driver is at fault, the trucking company’s insurance will be responsible for paying damages. Nevertheless, your own insurance company will still assist in settling the claim and pay for the repair or medical expenses meanwhile.
5. Consult with an Expert Lawyer
Lastly, after a trucking company is involved in a commercial vehicle crash, it is best to consult with an expert lawyer. Trucking crash lawyers know the subtlety of dealing with big companies and insurance policies. They are in the best position to safeguard your rights, guide you through the process, and secure fair compensation for losses, injuries, or damages. A lawyer can also assist in solving issues or claims against negligent motorists, faulty maintenance of the vehicle, or other reasons for the accident that will complicate the case.
Conclusion
Commercial vehicle accidents are often complicated and will often require solving them promptly in order to obtain the best outcome. From protecting yourself to gathering evidence and seeking professional help, the actions you take after the accident can affect the claims process and subsequent legal action. By staying calm and navigating these key steps, you’ll be well prepared to handle the consequences of a commercial truck collision and protect your rights.
