Truckers: Steps To Take After an Accident

Being a truck driver is a fun career, yet it comes with many responsibilities. While you may not have personally been involved in a trucking accident, it happens quite often. With trucking being among the most common professions in America, trucking accidents are not uncommon. 

General motor vehicle accidents have decreased due to incredible collision prevention technological advances in vehicles; however, the number of 18 wheelers’ crashes has increased. These numbers are expected to drop as automakers such as Tesla are incorporating technological innovation into their semi’s to improve safety.  

Either way, an accident can happen to absolutely anyone, so it is essential to know what steps to take after being involved in one. 

Notify the police

Even if it’s a minor accident, notify the police… in some states, it’s mandatory to complete a police report after an accident.

Seek medical attention

Health is critical, especially if you are a long haul truck driver. Even if the accident is minor and you feel fine, always seek medical attention to ensure that you are injury-free. Also, it is recommended by lawyers in case there is any trouble with insurance companies.

Take pictures

Evidence! Always take as many pictures as possible. Photos can do more than show damage after a collision. They can provide evidence as to how an accident occurred. As well as document damage for insurance claims for repairs.

Contact your insurance company and file a report.

If you are on the road representing a trucking company, contact your employer to report the incident as soon as possible. The company can then start the claims process with the insurance adjuster… many of which may want to visit the accident site to gather their own photos and documentation so the report can be processed.

When making your claim report, make sure you add as many details as possible to give an accurate picture of what happened to cause the accident.

Call an attorney

An attorney will guide you through what you need to do to protect you from any unwanted situation. Whether the accident was your fault or not, an attorney is recommended.  

If you are a truck repair shop that just received a truck that was in an accident and are having trouble finding a part, let us know, and we would be happy to help. Click here to contact us.