What Should You Do Immediately After Being Hit By A Commercial Truck?

Commercial truck accidents can be devastating events. Because of the weight and size of these vehicles, damage and injuries are usually severe.

Understanding the appropriate actions to take in the minutes following an incident like this can help protect your safety and your rights.

If you are tired of finding answers to a question like “what to do after a commercial vehicle hit me?”, you have come to the right place!

Therefore, keep on reading till the end…

A Commercial Vehicle Hit Me: What Should I Do?

Before you do something after being hit by a commercial vehicle, it is important that you understand what a commercial truck is in the first place.

For instance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) clearly outlines the way in which a commercial motor vehicle is different from a non-commercial motor vehicle. And generally, the authorities make these distinctions based on uses and weight.

To state simply, a commercial motor vehicle or CMV is basically any such vehicle that people use for business purposes. These can be for:

• Carrying passengers.
• Transporting goods.
• Providing services.

Now, these vehicles can range from small vans to very large trucks. In some cases, it can also include the following:

• Delivery trucks.
• Semi-trucks.
• Delivery vans.
• Passenger vans.
• Dump trucks.

Additionally, it also includes school buses, taxis, tow trucks, construction trucks, food trucks, and more. 

Now that you know what commercial vehicles are, let me answer the most asked question: What to do if a commercial vehicle hits me?

1. Prioritize Safety First

When a collision occurs, the first thing is safety. If comfortable and possible, go to a secure location away from traffic. So that no more accidents are involved in this process, or injuries are sustained.

If you can not move the vehicle, do not exit; stay buckled in until help arrives. Switch on the hazard lights so that other drivers can be aware. Consider getting help from a truck accident lawyer from Henderson to take up your case.

2. Contact Emergency Services

The very first thing that should be done is to make a call to 911 without any delay. If one feels a bit of their injuries, they still need to see a doctor to examine them.

Law enforcement will enter the location to take photographs and write an official report, which can be very helpful when dealing with insurance claims or in court.

Respect the police officers and give them the information they need, but keep it short.

3. Document the Scene

Once you are safe and have called the police, details matter. Photograph the damage to all vehicles involved, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries as well.

Now you have visual proof, which comes in handy later. You would need to note things like the time of the day, the weather, and anything else that would be relevant.

4. Exchange Information

If it is safe to do so, speak to the truck driver to exchange information while you are waiting for emergency services. Here are some of the things that you need to secure:

• Name.
• Phone number.
• Driver’s license number.
• Insurance information.

You also have to make sure to note the name of the trucking company and the license plate number on the truck. This will be important for any subsequent claims or trials.

5. Seek Medical Attention

However, even if you do not feel hurt, you should go to the doctor. Others, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be symptomatic immediately.

Going to a doctor allows for documentation of any injuries, which is helpful for insurance claims and potential lawsuits.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

You do need to report the accident to your insurer as soon as reasonably possible, however. Share with them everything that we can gather from the scene.

To ensure your claim is properly processed expeditiously, the insurance companies require you to notify them in a timely manner.

You should be honest and straightforward about what happened, but do not speculate as to who might have been at fault.

7. Avoid Discussing Fault

Do not discuss fault at the scene. Another thing to remember is that it is often an emotionally charged time following an accident.

And while you may want to argue who is at fault, this is not something that needs to be dealt with at that time.

When a claim or lawsuit is finally underway, anything that was said in the spur of the moment may make things more difficult.

8. Keep Detailed Records

Keep a file of all things about the accident. This should include items like:

• Medical reports.
• Repair and estimate reports.
• Correspondence with insurance companies.

Additionally, it should also include any expenses you may have incurred that resulted from the accident.

With organized records, your claim process is going to be much easier, plus you can also prove your case in court if needed.

9. Think About Personal Well-being

Accidents can cause psychological effects, in a way, stress or anxiety. These can be difficult emotions, making it even more pertinent to address them and get help if needed.

Furthermore, coping with the aftermath of an accident can involve counseling or speaking to a support group.

What Are Your Rights After A Commercial Vehicle Hits You?

Having a clear idea about your rights after an accident is extremely important. Knowing what kind of compensation may be available for:

• Medical expenses.
• Property damage.

It also includes other losses, which can help people make the right decisions.

Understanding their legal options can protect your rights and help you seek an equitable resolution.

Here are some of the rights that you have after an accident:

• The right to seek medical help.
• Right to seek compensation.
• Right to contact a lawyer.

But do you need a lawyer?

Do I Need A Lawyer If A Commercial Vehicle Hit Me?

Yes, after getting hit by a commercial vehicle, you will need to hire a lawyer. Here are some of the reasons why you would need a lawyer:

• Complexity of Commercial Accidents.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies.
• Establishing Fault.
• Calculating Damages.

Commercial vehicle accidents are so complicated with all these federal and state regulations, and a lawyer will be able to work through these regulations for you.

Insurance companies are always looking for ways to reduce their payout. So, hiring a lawyer will be your protection, and he/she will bargain for your money with the insurance company on your behalf.

Trying to prove that the commercial driver, their boss, or even the vehicle manufacturer that made the truck is at fault for the accident can be a very complicated task, and a lawyer is the only one who has the experience to perform this task.

A lawyer can walk you through and put on paper the whole extent of your losses, including medical bills, the money you would have made if you didn’t get injured, the medical care you will need in future, and pain and suffering.

Take Timely Action!

Being in a collision with a commercial truck can be very stressful and a traumatic experience. However, a good insurance policy can be an excellent solution to shield you and your rights.

It’s a great way to take the load off your recovery process and still keep your safety as a priority, apply and use all the knowledge, and get in touch with the experts for support.

However, as we go through this tough time, a reminder of these steps can be a source of firmness and help us keep going.