5 Things to Do After a Car Accident Involving an 18-Wheeler
Car accidents with large commercial trucks are extremely stressful and can be overwhelming. Injuries may be severe, vehicle damage significant, and insurance claims complex due to the involvement of commercial carriers. Taking the right steps immediately after the accident can make a significant difference in your personal injury claim. Insurance companies and courts scrutinize every detail, so being proactive is essential. Below are five key steps to protect your rights and maximize compensation.
1. Call 911 and Obtain a Police Report
No matter how minor the accident may appear, always call the police. When an 18-wheeler is involved, a police report is even more critical. The report provides an official record of the accident, documents the scene, lists the vehicles involved, and may include an initial assessment of fault.
Without a police report, proving liability against a commercial trucking company can be extremely difficult. Even a short delay in reporting can negatively impact your ability to pursue full compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other losses.
2. Collect Contact, Insurance, and Trucking Company Information
Gathering accurate information at the scene is essential. For car accidents with 18-wheelers, you need more than just the driver’s personal details. Make sure to get:
The truck driver’s name, license number, and contact information
The company the driver works for and its contact information
The DOT number for the truck, which identifies the commercial carrier
Insurance information for both the driver and the trucking company
Photos of the driver’s license, insurance card, and the truck’s registration
Commercial carriers are responsible for their drivers’ actions, and their insurance may cover significantly more than a standard personal auto policy. Collecting this information ensures you can hold the correct parties accountable.
3. Take Comprehensive Photos and Videos of the Scene and Injuries
Visual evidence is one of your strongest tools. Take photos and videos of:
Your car and the truck from multiple angles
Damage to all vehicles involved
Road conditions, signage, construction zones, or hazards that may have contributed
Your injuries, including bruises, cuts, lacerations, and swelling
Documenting skid marks, debris, and vehicle positioning is particularly important in truck accidents. Insurance adjusters often undervalue claims without solid evidence, and detailed photos and videos help demonstrate both the severity of your injuries and the liability of the trucking company.
4. Seek Immediate and Consistent Medical Treatment
Even if you feel okay immediately after the accident, car accidents with 18-wheelers can cause hidden injuries such as whiplash, internal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries. Seek emergency care promptly and continue consistent follow-up with your doctors.
Insurance companies scrutinize gaps in treatment to minimize payouts. Proper documentation of ongoing care, procedures, prescriptions, and therapies not only ensures your recovery but also strengthens your personal injury claim.
5. Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Commercial truck accidents are highly complex. Trucking companies have experienced legal teams and significant insurance coverage, and they often attempt to reduce settlements. An experienced attorney will:
Investigate the accident thoroughly, including driver logs, inspection reports, and DOT compliance
Assess the full value of your claim, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care
Negotiate with trucking companies and their insurers, or file a lawsuit if necessary
Your attorney can also identify other potentially liable parties, such as the trucking company, subcontractors, or equipment manufacturers. They will manage paperwork, handle medical liens, and ensure all responsible parties are held accountable to maximize your recovery.
