Car or truck accidents are unexpected and often overwhelming events. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, knowing the steps to take immediately after an accident can protect your health, legal rights, and ability to claim insurance. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do after a car or truck accident to ensure your safety and protect your interests.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Always prioritize safety and medical attention before anything else. Call 911 even for minor accidents.
The first priority after any accident is safety, especially if a large truck is involved. In 2022, 5,936 people were killed in traffic crashes involving large trucks, with 70% of those being occupants of other vehicles. Truck accidents, in particular, can be very dangerous, so safety should be paramount.
- Check for injuries: If you’re injured, stay still and wait for emergency personnel to arrive. If you’re able to move, check on your passengers and others involved in the accident. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s still critical to get medical attention because adrenaline can mask symptoms of injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions.
- Call 911: In many states, it is required to call the police for accidents involving injuries or significant damage. Even if it’s not mandatory, it’s a good idea to call 911 so that a police officer can document the accident. This official report will be essential when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
2. Move to a Safe Location, if Possible
Move to safety, but don’t jeopardize yourself or others by moving vehicles if it’s unsafe.
If the vehicles are causing a hazard on the road and are still operational, move them to a safer location, such as the shoulder of the road. However, if the accident is severe or if the vehicles cannot be moved, stay where you are, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for emergency personnel.
- Turn on hazard lights: This will warn other drivers to avoid your vehicle and help prevent additional accidents.
- Stay inside the car: If it’s dangerous to exit the vehicle, especially on busy highways, remain inside and wait for help.
3. Exchange Information With the Other Driver
Collect all relevant information but avoid any discussions about who is to blame.
Once you’re in a safe location, exchange key information with the other driver. This includes:
- Names and contact information
- Driver’s license numbers
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Insurance policy details (company and policy number)
It’s also helpful to take note of the make, model, and color of the other vehicle, as well as the license plate number. However, avoid discussing who was at fault. Determining fault should be left to the police and insurance companies.
4. Document the Scene’
Gather detailed evidence at the scene, including photographs and witness statements.
Proper documentation of the accident scene is crucial for insurance claims and any legal proceedings that may follow. Here’s what to do:
- Take photographs: Capture pictures of both vehicles from multiple angles, showing the damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any traffic signs or signals.
- Record the location and time: Make a note of the accident’s location (including street names and landmarks) and the time it occurred.
- Speak with witnesses: If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and statements about what they saw. Their accounts could be valuable if there’s a dispute about fault.
In the case of truck accidents, it’s especially important to gather evidence regarding road conditions, vehicle cargo, and any potential signs of negligence (e.g., tire blowouts, overloaded trucks). Commercial trucking companies have their own insurance teams, and gathering evidence as soon as possible can be crucial.
5. File a Police Report
Always ensure a police report is filed for official documentation.
The police will create an accident report, which is an official document detailing the events of the accident. This report will be critical for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. Be sure to ask for the report number or a copy of the report when it’s available.
If the police do not come to the scene, you can usually file a report yourself at a local police station. Some states also allow you to file a report online.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Promptly report the accident to your insurance company and provide all necessary documentation.
After the accident, report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt reporting to process claims effectively. Provide your insurer with the necessary information, including:
- The police report
- Photographs of the accident scene and vehicle damage
- Witness statements
- Medical reports, if applicable
Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting your own insurer or legal representation. Trucking companies often have large insurance firms with extensive legal teams, so it’s important to proceed with caution when dealing with them.
7. Seek Medical Attention
Always get a medical check-up after an accident, even if you feel uninjured at first.
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not manifest symptoms until hours or days after the accident. Medical records will also play an important role if you pursue compensation for medical bills or injuries.
In serious truck accidents, injuries such as spinal trauma, broken bones, or internal injuries are common. Keep all medical records, bills, and treatment plans, as these documents will be critical if you need to pursue a personal injury claim.
8. Contact an Attorney (Especially for Truck Accidents)
Consider consulting an attorney, especially in cases of serious injury or truck accidents, to ensure your rights are protected.
In car accidents, particularly those involving severe injuries or complicated circumstances, it may be best to consult a personal injury attorney. This is even more critical in truck accidents, where commercial trucking companies and their insurers often employ aggressive legal tactics to minimize payouts.
An experienced truck accident attorney can help protect your rights, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and guide you through the legal process if you decide to file a lawsuit for compensation.
9. Follow Up With Insurance and Medical Treatment
Keep organized records of your medical treatment and insurance communications for future reference.
After the initial reporting and medical treatment, it’s important to follow up with your insurance company and healthcare provider:
- Monitor your claim’s progress: Stay in touch with your insurance company and provide any additional information they request. Keep a record of all communications.
- Continue medical treatment: Follow your doctor’s recommendations, attend all necessary appointments, and keep detailed treatment records. This will support your personal injury claim if you pursue one.
Moving Forward After an Accident
Knowing what to do after a car or truck accident can protect your health, secure compensation, and minimize legal complications. By following these steps — seeking immediate medical attention, documenting the scene, notifying your insurance, and consulting with an attorney when necessary — you can ensure a smoother process during a stressful time.
If you’ve been involved in a car or truck accident and need legal advice, contact VandenBout Law today. Our experienced attorneys can help guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
