Texas highways see some of the highest volumes of commercial truck traffic in the country. From 18-wheelers hauling freight across I-10 to oil tankers navigating rural roads, large trucks are a vital part of the state’s economy but also pose significant risks on the road. When a truck accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your physical recovery, financial stability, and legal rights.
Our experienced Texas truck accident lawyers at The Doan Law Firm outline the essential steps to take after a truck accident and explain how these actions can protect your well-being and preserve your ability to pursue a claim.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call 911
After a collision involving a commercial truck, safety should be your top priority.
- Move to a safe location if possible and without worsening your injuries.
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident. Texas law requires you to report any accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage.
Emergency responders will assess injuries, secure the scene, and create an official accident report, which is crucial for any future insurance or legal claim.
Step 2: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Truck accidents often result in high-impact injuries that may not be immediately apparent due to shock or adrenaline. Common truck accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
- Whiplash or soft-tissue damage
Prompt medical care protects your health and creates a medical record that can serve as evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim.
Step 3: Document the Accident Scene
If you physically can, gather as much information as possible before leaving the scene:
- Photographs: Take pictures of the vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, injuries, and nearby traffic signs.
- Witness contact info: If anyone saw the crash, get their name and phone number. Their statements could be valuable later.
- Truck details: Record the truck’s license plate, USDOT number, company name, and any markings on the trailer or cab.
This evidence can disappear quickly, especially if the trucking company dispatches a response team. Your documentation could be vital for establishing liability.
Step 4: Exchange Information
You are required to exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance information
- Vehicle registration number
In a truck accident, it is also crucial to determine who owns the truck and who employs the driver. This could be the driver individually, a trucking company, or a third-party contractor. These details may be critical in identifying liable parties.
Step 5: Avoid Admitting Fault
In the stressful aftermath of a crash, it is natural to want to apologize or speculate about what happened. Resist this urge. Even a simple apology could be twisted into an admission of fault. Instead, stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, police, and insurers. Let the evidence speak for itself.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Texas law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance and inform their insurers of any crash. Report the accident as soon as reasonably possible. Keep your comments factual and brief. Avoid giving a recorded statement until you have consulted an attorney, especially if you were injured.
In truck accidents, multiple insurance companies may be involved, including the commercial carrier’s insurer. If you receive calls from adjusters representing the trucking company, you are under no obligation to speak with them. It is in your best interest to consult with legal counsel first.
Step 7: Be Cautious with Settlement Offers
Commercial truck accidents often involve large insurance policies, and insurers work hard to limit their financial exposure. You may receive a settlement offer shortly after the crash, especially if fault seems clear. Before accepting any money, ask:
- Does this cover all my current and future medical bills?
- What about lost income, pain and suffering, or property damage?
- What happens if complications arise later?
Signing a settlement agreement without fully understanding your long-term costs could leave you without recourse. Truck accident injuries can take months or years to resolve. You may require surgeries, rehabilitation, or permanent accommodations. A quick payout may not reflect the true value of your claim.
Step 8: Understand the Complexity of Truck Accident Claims
Truck accident claims are more complex than standard car accident cases. Several parties may be partially responsible for what happened, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The owner of the cargo
- The maintenance company
- The manufacturer of a faulty truck part
Additionally, federal and state laws regulate the trucking industry. Violations such as driver fatigue, overloaded cargo, or improper maintenance may contribute to your case. These issues require a thorough investigation and comprehensive understanding of the relevant statutes and regulations.
Step 9: Keep a Record of Your Recovery
From the day of the crash onward, keep a record of how the accident has affected your life. This includes:
- Medical bills and treatment summaries
- Missed work and lost wages
- Journals describing your pain levels or limitations
- Communications with insurers
- Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
A well-documented recovery process strengthens your case by showing the full extent of your damages.
Step 10: Speak With a Texas Truck Accident Lawyer
If you are hurt in a crash involving a commercial truck, you do not have to face the legal system alone. Trucking companies have legal teams and insurers working to protect their interests. Our knowledgeable Texas truck accident attorneys can level the playing field by:
- Investigating the accident and preserving key evidence
- Identifying all liable parties
- Calculating the full value of your claim
- Negotiating with insurers
- Filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement is not offered
Time matters. Texas generally allows two years to file a personal injury claim, but evidence can fade, and memories can change quickly. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will likely be.
The Doan Law Firm Can Help After a Texas Truck Collision
A truck accident can leave you with life-changing injuries, mounting expenses, and many unanswered questions. By following the right steps in the period after the crash, you can protect your health, safeguard your rights, and build a foundation for recovery.
If you are unsure of what to do next, schedule a free consultation with our Texas truck accident lawyers, who can guide you through the process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.