Have you ever found yourself stuck in traffic behind a massive truck and wondered what would happen if something went wrong? Accidents involving heavy vehicles, like semi-trucks or large commercial vehicles, can be extremely dangerous. These accidents are often more complicated than regular collisions because of the size and weight of the vehicles. If you’re driving in a busy city like Denver or anywhere else in the U.S., you should know what steps to take after such a serious event.
In this blog, we will share helpful steps to follow if you are involved in a serious traffic accident with a heavy vehicle.
Prioritize Your Safety First
Your safety comes before anything else. If you are involved in a crash with a heavy vehicle, check yourself and others for injuries. If you’re badly hurt, try not to move unless it’s unsafe to stay in your current spot, like if there’s a risk of fire. If you’re able to move, check on your passengers and call 911 for help right away. Make sure to give them your exact location and a quick description of what happened.
Once you’re sure it’s safe, turn on your hazard lights. If your car can move and it’s causing a traffic issue, move it to the side of the road. If not, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
Get Medical Help and Legal Advice
Even if you feel okay after the crash, it’s still essential to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like head trauma or whiplash, may not show symptoms right away. A medical report also helps prove your injury later, if needed. Let the emergency medical responders assess your condition on-site or visit a hospital soon after the crash. Keep all records from your medical visits since they might be useful later.
If the accident happened in Colorado and a heavy vehicle was involved, consider speaking with a Denver truck accident lawyer. These types of crashes often involve commercial companies, insurance agencies, and possibly more than one driver. A local lawyer who understands the rules in your area can guide you. They can talk to insurance companies on your behalf and help protect your rights. This can make the recovery process smoother and less stressful for you.
Report the Accident to Authorities
Reporting the crash is a necessary step, especially if there are injuries or damage. Most states require you to call the police if someone is hurt or if the property damage seems serious. When officers arrive, they will create an official accident report. That report will include details from everyone involved and any witnesses. Make sure to ask for the report number before the police leave the scene.
If the police do not come for some reason, you should still file a report at the nearest police station. Bring your license, insurance information, and details about the crash. The official report can support your case later if you need to file a claim. It gives your side of the story some legal backup, especially when the facts are unclear or there’s a dispute.
Document Everything at the Scene
If you’re able to do so safely, gather as much information as you can at the accident scene. Start by taking photos of all vehicles involved, including close-ups of damage, license plates, and any road signs or skid marks. Don’t forget to take wide-angle shots to show the full scene. These pictures may help explain how the accident happened later.
Also, write down the names and contact information of the other driver, passengers, and anyone who saw the crash. Try to get the name of the trucking company and take a picture of any logos on the truck. If the driver was working at the time, the company may also be responsible for the crash. Save all this information in one place, like a note on your phone or in an email to yourself.
Notify Your Insurance Company
After you leave the scene and are safe, contact your insurance provider. Let them know you were involved in an accident with a heavy vehicle and give them the basic facts. They will likely ask for the police report, medical records, and any photos you took. Be honest, but do not guess or admit fault. If you’re unsure about something, let them know you are still gathering details.
Depending on your insurance, they may open a claim and help cover some of the damages or medical bills. Keep track of any conversations you have with the insurance team, including names, dates, and what was discussed. While a lawyer can handle the legal aspects, it’s also worth noting that many full-service automotive centers provide hands-on assistance with car insurance claims on the vehicle repair side.
Understand Your Legal Rights
Accidents with heavy vehicles often involve different laws than standard car crashes. These trucks may follow state and federal rules, and the driver may be backed by a company and their legal team. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights. If the truck driver was speeding, distracted, or overworked, they could be held responsible for your injuries and damage.
There may also be other parties involved, like the company that owns the truck or those who maintain it. If a part failed or cargo was loaded incorrectly, they might be part of the cause. You have the right to ask for compensation if someone else’s actions caused the crash. Medical bills, lost income, and pain from injuries are some things a lawyer can help you recover.
In conclusion, getting into a crash with a heavy vehicle is scary, and it can change your life in just a few seconds. But knowing what to do next can help you take back control. The steps you take right after the crash—like getting medical help, gathering evidence, and talking to the right people—can shape your recovery. Think of it as protecting your future, both for your health and your peace of mind. Take action, stay informed, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
