Accidents involving commercial vehicles can be overwhelming and confusing. Whether it’s a delivery truck, rideshare vehicle, or semi-truck, knowing what actions to take immediately after an accident can protect your health, rights, and financial well-being. Below is a guide to help you through this challenging time.
Prioritize Safety and Check for Injuries
The very first step after any accident is to ensure your safety and that of others involved. If you’re able, move yourself and your vehicle out of harm’s way, such as off the roadway or shoulder. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Check yourself and others for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, treating them as significant ensures you get the care you need.
If anyone involved appears to be seriously hurt, quickly call emergency services to report the accident and request an ambulance. Do not attempt to move anyone with apparent severe injuries unless there is an immediate danger, such as a fire.
Contact Emergency Services
Calling 911 is essential in any commercial vehicle accident. Reporting the situation ensures police will arrive at the scene to investigate and document important details. The officer’s accident report will likely play a crucial role in insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
When the police arrive, provide them with factual details about what occurred. Avoid speculating or making statements that could potentially be misconstrued as admitting fault. Stick to the facts of the incident and allow the authorities to investigate.
Exchange Information with Other Parties
You must exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver or individuals involved. This includes gathering details such as their name, phone number, driver’s license, license plate number, and employer details if they’re driving a commercial vehicle.
Additionally, identify the type of commercial vehicle involved, whether it is a company car, leased truck, or rideshare vehicle. This information will help determine liability and clarify what type of insurance applies.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, take pictures and notes at the scene of the accident. Document everything—your injuries, damage to vehicles, weather conditions, road signage, and anything else that could serve as evidence later.
Photograph the commercial vehicle from multiple angles and capture any logo, license number, or company markings visible on it. If there are witnesses nearby, politely ask for their name and contact details in case their testimony is needed.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to consult a medical professional immediately following an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms until hours or even days later.
Prompt medical attention not only ensures your health but also creates documentation of your injuries, which can be critical when filing a claim. Keep all records, including medical bills, doctor’s notes, and treatment plans, safely stored for future reference.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to inform them of the accident and begin the claims process. Provide them with the information you gathered at the scene, such as the other driver’s details and photos of the damage.
When working with insurance agencies, be careful with your words. Stick to the facts. Avoid giving statements or signing agreements before fully understanding the terms, especially if offered a quick settlement.
Understand Liability in Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Determining fault in commercial vehicle accidents can be complex because multiple parties may share liability. These may include the driver, the company owning the vehicle, third-party maintenance providers, or even the vehicle manufacturer.
For example, if the driver was operating as part of their job or for a rideshare service, their employer might be partially responsible for damages. Understanding liability is key to pursuing the right compensation.
Consult Legal Assistance
Commercial vehicle accidents often involve intricate legal and insurance processes, which can be challenging to manage on your own. Consulting a legal professional with experience in accidents involving commercial vehicles can help you understand your rights and guide you through filing a claim or seeking compensation.
For instance, if your accident involves a rideshare service, seeking the expertise of a Lyft accident attorney can ensure you’re receiving guidance tailored to the unique aspects of such cases. Lawyers know how to investigate accidents, build strong claims, and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
Keep Track of All Documents
Stay organized by keeping all paperwork related to the accident in a secure folder. This should include police reports, medical records, insurance correspondence, repair estimates, proof of income loss (if applicable), and any legal documents.
Having everything consolidated will make it easier to refer back to key information as your case progresses. It’s also useful if you need to provide these documents to an attorney or insurance adjuster.
Be Cautious About Settlements
Insurance companies may quickly offer a settlement after a commercial vehicle accident. While the offer might seem convenient, it’s crucial to evaluate it carefully. Lowball settlements are not uncommon, particularly for complex cases involving multiple liabilities or serious injuries.
Before accepting any offer, consult with a legal or financial expert to ensure the compensation is fair and comprehensive.
Final Thoughts
Being injured in a commercial vehicle accident is a stressful experience, but taking the right steps can make all the difference. From seeking immediate medical attention to consulting a legal professional, each action you take can help protect your health, rights, and financial recovery. By staying organized and prepared, you can move forward with confidence.
