The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that in 2023, 114,552 large trucks were involved in crashes resulting in an injury, and 5,375 were involved in fatal crashes. Any time you’re on the road, there’s the risk of an accident, even if you drive safely and defensively. And when there are large vehicles in the equation, things can quickly become hazardous and dangerous.
If you aren’t able to maneuver yourself safely away from an incoming truck, then you may be involved in a crash. Knowing what to do afterward can be hugely beneficial, as you’ll be able to handle the situation with a clearer and calmer mind.
These are the steps you should take after you’ve been in a truck accident.
Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety
Your first priority after a truck crash should be to check yourself, your passengers, and other involved parties for injuries. If anyone’s hurt, avoid moving them unless they’re in immediate danger (such as fire or oncoming traffic). Otherwise, leave them where they are to decrease the chance of further injuries.
Turn on your hazard lights and move to a safer location if possible. That way, you can prevent further collisions.
Even if your injuries seem minor, any good truck accident attorney would tell you not to ignore them, as some symptoms can appear later.
Contact Emergency Services
After assessing your injuries, contact emergency services right away. This ensures that an official report is created, which can be crucial for insurance claims and other legal matters.
When you’re on the phone, provide clear and accurate information about your location and the severity of the accident. This can give the emergency responders better details and enable them to handle complex situations.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
A vital part of protecting yourself and preserving important details is documenting the accident scene. You should take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Skid marks
- Traffic signs
- Any visible injuries
Make sure to capture multiple angles and include not only the truck, but also your car and the surrounding area.
If there were witnesses, ask them for their contact information and statements (if they’re willing to provide them). In addition, write down everything you can remember while it’s fresh; what you think are solid details now may later become hazy or even vanish from your memory.
Exchange Information With All Parties Involved
The next step is to exchange information with all parties involved in the accident. This includes:
- Names
- Phone numbers
- Driver’s license details
- License plate numbers
- Insurance information
- Trucking company’s name (if it’s a commercial truck)
Always remain calm and avoid discussing fault or placing blame.
By collecting accurate information, you can help:
- Preserve essential details
- Support insurance claims
- Contribute to a more manageable recovery process
Know What to Do After a Truck Accident
Any type of vehicular crash can be stressful, especially if it involves a large truck. But if you’re prepared for it, then you can handle the situation with more ease. Plus, you’ll have a better chance of getting compensation if you weren’t at fault.
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