What to do in the Event of a Truck Accident

 Accidents involving commercial trucks can have devastating consequences. Because of their size and weight, crashes involving large trucks are often far more severe than those involving passenger vehicles.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,936 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks in 2022. Large trucks are also more likely than passenger vehicles to be involved in fatal multi-vehicle crashes, and 70% of those killed in large-truck crashes were occupants of other vehicles.

If you are involved in a truck accident, the moments immediately afterward can be overwhelming. Fear, confusion, and adrenaline can make it difficult to know what to do, but taking the right steps can help protect both your health and any potential legal claim.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

• Call 911 and report the crash immediately.
• Seek medical attention right away, even if you believe your injuries are minor.
• Gather evidence at the scene if it is safe to do so, including:
• Photos of the position and damage of all vehicles involved.
• Skid marks, road conditions, or other physical evidence.
• Photos of any visible injuries.
• The truck driver's license information, license plate number, trucking company name, and U.S. DOT number.
• Be cautious about what you say at the scene and when speaking with insurance companies.
• Notify your insurance company about the accident.
• Contact an experienced truck accident attorney to discuss your rights and legal options.

What to Avoid

After a truck accident, avoid actions that could negatively impact your claim, including:

• Delaying or skipping medical treatment.
• Making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
• Sharing details about the accident publicly or with insurance adjusters before understanding your rights.
• Accepting a settlement offer or signing documents before consulting an attorney.

Who May Be Responsible?

Liability in a commercial truck accident is often more complex than in a typical car crash. Depending on the circumstances, one or more parties may be responsible, including:

• The truck driver.
• The trucking company.
• The owner of the truck or trailer.
• Cargo loading contractors.
• Maintenance or repair providers.
• Other drivers involved in the collision.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident, the experienced attorneys at Hupy and Abraham are here to help. Call 1-800-800-5678 or visit Hupy.com for a free consultation to learn about your legal options.