A collision with a large truck can change your life in an instant. In the aftermath, you may feel overwhelmed, injured, and unsure of what to do next. At D’Amore Law Group, we understand the challenges you face and are here to guide you through the necessary steps to protect your health, rights, and future.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call 911
When processing what to do after a truck accident, safety and the safety of others should be your immediate concern. If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic and call 911. Reporting the accident to law enforcement ensures that emergency responders arrive quickly to provide medical assistance and secure the accident scene. A police report will also serve as crucial evidence when filing a claim.
Step 2: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening if left untreated. Medical records will also play a key role in documenting the extent of your injuries for an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If it is safe to do so, collect as much evidence as possible before leaving the accident scene. Key pieces of evidence include:
- Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signals;
- Contact information of witnesses;
- The truck driver’s name, employer, and insurance details; and
- The truck’s license plate and USDOT number (often found on the cab door).
This information can be important when determining liability, especially if the trucking company disputes your claim. That being said, if you need to leave the scene immediately to address medical emergencies, please do not hesitate to do so.
Step 4: Avoid Admitting Fault or Discussing the Case
This step is less about what to do after a truck accident and more about what not to do. Anything you say at the scene can be used against you later. Avoid admitting fault, apologizing, or speculating about what happened. Insurance and trucking companies may try to minimize liability by shifting blame to you. Let the official investigation determine responsibility.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Be factual, but do not provide recorded statements or accept early settlement offers before consulting an attorney. Once you accept a settlement offer, you cannot ask for more if you later determine the amount was insufficient to cover your needs. Trucking companies and their insurers often employ aggressive tactics to reduce payouts.
Step 6: Understand Your Legal Rights
Truck accidents are more complex than regular car accidents due to federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry. Key regulations that may impact your case include:
- Hours of service rules. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate without rest.
- Oregon and Washington trucking laws. Each state has rules on truck weight limits, maintenance requirements, and liability in accidents.
- Vicarious liability. In many cases, the trucking company may be held responsible for the driver’s negligence.
Consulting a qualified truck accident attorney can help you determine who is liable and how to pursue compensation for your injuries.
Step 7: Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer
Trucking companies and their insurers have legal teams working to protect their interests. You need an advocate who will fight for you. At D’Amore Law Group, we have a semi-truck accident attorney with National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) certification, signifying exceptional competence in truck accident litigation.
We understand what to do after a truck accident and have successfully represented victims of serious truck accidents in Oregon and Washington for over 25 years, securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. This step should be a priority when determining what to do after a semi-truck accident, even if you cannot complete the other steps.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Understanding the cause of the crash is essential for proving liability. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue due to violations of hours of service regulations;
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting, using a GPS, or eating while driving);
- Overloaded or improperly secured cargo;
- Mechanical failures due to poor maintenance; and
- Speeding or reckless driving.
If negligence played a role in your accident, you have the right to seek justice. A truck accident attorney from D’Amore Law Group can handle the burden of your legal claim and allow you to recover in peace.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident or a Semi-Truck Accident
The steps outlined above apply to all large truck collisions, whether involving an 18-wheeler, a semi-truck, or another commercial vehicle. However, due to the size and weight of these trucks, injuries and damages tend to be more severe.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in 5,700 fatal crashes in the U.S. during 2021 alone, highlighting the risks these massive vehicles pose. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance.
Why Choose D’Amore Law Group?
At D’Amore Law Group, we combine compassion with legal expertise to guide clients through the most challenging times of their lives. Our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a truck accident can take. We are committed to securing the maximum compensation for your losses and ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Oregon or Washington, do not navigate this process alone. We can guide you through what to do after an 18-wheeler accident. Contact D’Amore Law Group today for a free consultation. Our experienced and knowledgeable team is here to help you understand your rights, build a strong case, and pursue the justice you deserve.
