Truck accidents overwhelm victims physically, emotionally, and financially. The size and force of the truck can shake a person to the point of having no idea of what to do next.
Each action after a truck accident can greatly influence recovery, legal consequences, and even insurance claims.
But let’s face it. When you are standing in the middle of a chaotic accident scene, telling yourself to “stay calm” or “think logically” is next to impossible. That is why having a roadmap makes a difference.
Here’s a practical guide to what victims should focus on immediately after a truck accident.
1. Prioritize Your Safety
First things first: get out of harm’s way. If the accident occurred on a busy highway, move to the side of the road if possible. However, do not leave the scene altogether; it is essential to stay until authorities arrive.
If you get hurt, only move if absolutely necessary. Sometimes, adrenaline masks pain, and what might feel like a small ache can be serious. Call 911 and wait for emergency responders. The first question they will probably ask is, “Are you okay?” Be honest about your discomfort, even if you feel like it’s nothing.
2. Record the Situation
Consider the accident scene as a story waiting to be told—your version of the story. Use your cell phone to take pictures or videos from all possible angles: the vehicles involved, skid marks, debris, traffic signs, and even the prevailing weather conditions.
And why does this matter? Because evidence disappears fast. That oil spill on the road? Gone after the next rain. A well-documented scene can be the difference between a weak case and one that holds up in court.
3. Exchange Information
It is important to get the truck driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details. Do not overshare. Statements like “I didn’t see you coming” or “I was going too fast” may later be used against you.
You should get a witness’s address or other forms of contact if they were around. Their testimonies may make your case clearer in unclear situations.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, go to the doctor. Most injuries from truck accidents will appear later. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries can take hours or even days to manifest.
Keep every medical record—from emergency room visits to follow-up appointments. That’s not just important for your health; it’s vital in case of insurance claims and lawsuits.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance provider, but keep the conversation straightforward. Give basic facts about the accident, but do not assume or guess who might be at fault. Let the investigation conclude that.
If the trucking company’s insurance contacts you, tread carefully. Their goal is to minimize their payout, not to help you.
6. Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents differ from normal car accidents. They usually involve complex laws, trucking company policies, and sometimes more than one party to sue. That is definitely not something you want to handle alone.
A good injury attorney will help you in the process, including interactions with insurance companies and submitting a claim. They are experienced enough to dig out necessary information, like whether the truck driver had been overworked or if the vehicle had been properly maintained.
7. Keep Records of Everything
Keep all the receipts, bills, and emails, including:
- Medical spending
- Repair costs
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Pain and suffering documentation
Treat these records as building blocks for your case. The more you have, the stronger your case will be.
Final Thoughts
To the people who have been involved in a truck accident, it may be just a bad day, while to many, it would change the course of their lives. However, the process of recovery depends on how one acts next. Everything matters—from documenting the scene to seeking medical care and consulting a lawyer.
Remember that this is not a journey one must travel alone. The road to recovery may be difficult, but it is possible with the right precautions.
Bob Duncan is the lead writer and partner on ConversationsWithBianca.com. A passionate parent, he’s always excited to dive into the conversation about anything from parenting, food & drink, travel, to gifts & more!