Yikes. You’ve gotten into an accident, but not with a regular vehicle: with a commercial truck!
In addition to the increased risk of injury, there are a few differences when you’re in an accident of this nature. We’ve supported clients in the same position you’re in, so we have valuable information to share that may help you if you ever find yourself in this situation.
Like with any accident, stop and remain at the site of the crash.
This is especially important when you’re in an auto accident with a commercial truck because there are a few more factors at play. It’s not just two private citizens in an accident; there’s now a company involved. This is a major difference and will require a more hands-on approach.
Call the police and start evaluating the damage to your vehicle. If there have been any injuries or even tragic death, you may want to hire an auto accident lawyer in the future.
Identify what kind of truck was involved in the accident.
Make sure you’re aware of what company the driver is working for and/or what company owns the truck. For example, in the past, it was possible for people to rent trucks and help deliver packages for Amazon. With this in mind, you have multiple parties involved: the driver, the company they’re delivering for, and the company that rented out the truck.
When the driver of the truck involved in the auto accident is working for a company, it’s their employer that might have to pay up for your personal injuries and ultimately work with your personal injury attorney. Look over the truck and determine what company or organization is in charge of the vehicle because it’s likely you’re going to be in touch with them when it comes to settling this case.
More information needs to be exchanged.
Exchanging information with the truck driver is going to be a little different than with a regular citizen. This is because you’ll also need the name and contact information of the truck driver’s employer. As mentioned before, they are the ones most likely to work with your car accident lawyer and pay your settlement.
Get as much information as you can about the company, such as a phone number or other identifying information on the truck. It’s better to have as much information as possible since this is a different situation than your usual fender bender.
If you get injured…
Hopefully, no one is seriously hurt, because large, commercial trucks can do some major damage. It’s almost guaranteed that after an auto accident of this kind, you’re going to need a personal injury attorney. As experienced personal injury and auto accident lawyers in Alaska, we have the experience to help you out.
We hope you never have to use this information, and that you’re never involved in a car accident with a commercial truck. But if you are, and need legal representation, you know who to reach out to. We’re here to support you through this challenging time!