A commercial vehicle accident can have serious consequences, both physically and legally. Taking the right steps immediately afterward is essential to protect your safety, preserve evidence, and strengthen your potential claim for compensation.
Ensure Safety and Get Medical Help
Your health and safety should always come first.
- Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and wait for emergency responders.
- Move to a safe area, if possible, to avoid further collisions, especially if the accident occurred on a busy roadway.
- Use hazard lights, flares, or warning triangles to alert other drivers.
Call Law Enforcement
It’s critical to report commercial vehicle accidents to the police, as they will document the incident and create an official accident report.
- Provide accurate details about what happened.
- Avoid speculating about fault or admitting blame. Stick to the facts.
- Request a copy of the police report for your records.
Document the Scene
Gathering evidence at the scene is crucial, as commercial vehicle accidents often involve complex liability issues.
- Take photos of all vehicles involved, including license plates, damages, road conditions, traffic signals, and any skid marks.
- Document visible injuries and anything that could help explain what caused the accident, such as debris or weather conditions.
- Record the names, badge numbers, and contact details of responding officers.
Exchange Information
Obtain essential details from all parties involved in the accident.
- Collect the driver’s name, phone number, and address.
- Get the name of the driver’s employer or the company that owns the commercial vehicle.
- Note the make, model, and license plate number of the commercial vehicle.
- Obtain insurance details, including policy numbers and the insurer’s contact information.
- Speak with witnesses and collect their contact information for future statements.
Avoid Admitting Fault
When discussing the accident with the driver, witnesses, or law enforcement, avoid admitting fault, even casually.
- Stick to factual observations, such as road conditions or what you saw, without assigning blame.
- Let investigators determine liability based on evidence.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel uninjured, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible.
- Injuries such as whiplash, internal injuries, or concussions may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time.
- A medical report will establish a link between your injuries and the accident, which is essential for your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly.
- Share the basic details of the accident without offering opinions on fault.
- Follow the claims process outlined by your insurer, but avoid giving statements to the other party’s insurer without legal guidance.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Commercial vehicle accidents often involve higher stakes due to the potential for extensive damage and injuries. Consulting an attorney experienced in commercial vehicle cases can protect your rights.
- An attorney can identify all liable parties, which may include the driver, the employer, the vehicle owner, or third-party contractors.
- They can handle negotiations with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim.
- They will ensure compliance with state and federal laws that may impact your case, such as trucking regulations.
Conclusion
After a commercial vehicle accident, taking the right steps is crucial for your safety and legal protection. By documenting the scene, seeking medical attention, and consulting an experienced attorney, you can build a strong foundation for your claim and improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
