Do’s
Ensure Safety First: Move to a safe location if you can and check for any injuries. Safety is the foremost priority.
Call Emergency Services: Report the accident to the police and, if necessary, call for medical assistance immediately.
Gather Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved. Also, note down the vehicle numbers, and driver’s license details.
Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damages, and any relevant road signs or signals.
Look for Witnesses: Identify any witnesses and get their contact information. They can provide crucial insights into what happened.
Report to Your Employer: If you are driving a commercial vehicle, inform your employer about the accident as soon as possible.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, getting a medical check-up is important as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident but avoid making any admissions of fault.
Keep Records: Maintain a file of all accident-related documents, including medical bills, police reports, and communications with insurance companies.
Consult an Attorney: Consider consulting an attorney who specializes in commercial vehicle accidents, especially if there are injuries or significant damages.
Don’ts
Don’t Leave the Scene: Leaving the scene of an accident can result in legal consequences, especially if there are injuries or damages.
Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability.
Don’t Neglect Medical Care: Ignoring potential injuries can lead to more serious health issues later.
Don’t Provide Recorded Statements: Be cautious about providing recorded statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
Don’t Sign Anything Without Understanding: Avoid signing any documents from insurance companies or other parties involved without fully understanding them.
Don’t Overlook Traffic Laws: Be aware of the traffic laws related to commercial vehicle accidents in your state.
Don’t Delay Reporting: Delay in reporting the accident to your employer or insurance company can complicate the claims process.
Don’t Overlook Environmental Factors: If weather, road conditions, or other environmental factors played a role, document them.
Don’t Underestimate Mental Impact: Accidents can be traumatic. Pay attention to your mental health and seek support if needed.
Don’t Engage in Conflict: Avoid confrontations or arguments with other parties involved in the accident.