Truck drivers must go through extensive training in order to obtain a commercial driver’s license. That training involves all aspects of driving a big rig including how to respond to an accident. Being in a truck accident is likely to be a chaotic and stressful event, but truck drivers are responsible for responding appropriately in the aftermath. Quick and effective action can help protect lives, minimize damage, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Knowing what steps to take immediately after a crash can significantly affect safety and liability.
Prioritize Safety at the Scene
The first and most important priority after a truck accident is safety. If the accident happens in a dangerous spot, like a busy highway or an intersection, the driver should immediately switch on their hazard lights to alert other drivers. If it’s possible and safe to do so, they should also move the truck to a less dangerous position to lessen the risk of further collisions.
Once the vehicle is secure, checking for injuries is crucial. The driver should assess their own condition first and then determine whether any passengers, pedestrians, or occupants of other vehicles need medical assistance.
Even if injuries appear minor, calling emergency services ensures that paramedics arrive to evaluate the situation properly.
Notify Law Enforcement and Emergency Services
Typically, truck drivers are required to report an accident to law enforcement. Police will document the scene, interview eyewitnesses, and write an official report, which can be vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Emergency services must be notified immediately if there are injuries, significant property damage, or hazardous material spills.
Truck drivers carrying cargo should inform authorities about the contents of their load, especially if the accident involves hazardous materials. The responding fire and hazmat teams need to know what they are dealing with in order mitigate risks for the surrounding area effectively.
Set Up Warning Devices
Federal regulations require commercial truck drivers to deploy warning devices after an accident to alert approaching traffic. If the truck is stopped on the roadway or shoulder, the driver must place reflective triangles or flares at designated distances behind the vehicle.
These warnings help prevent secondary accidents and ensure visibility, particularly in dim conditions.
Gather Information and Document the Scene
Truck drivers should collect as much information as possible about the accident. This includes noting the time, location, and road conditions. Exchanging contact information and insurance details with any other drivers is also necessary.
Photographing the scene can provide essential evidence. Images of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and any contributing factors like weather conditions can be helpful during an investigation.
If there are witnesses, obtaining their names and statements can also support the driver’s account of the events.
Contact the Trucking Company
Most drivers operate under the specific policies of their trucking company, which will likely include required accident-reporting procedures. Notifying the trucking company as soon as possible allows them to take appropriate action, like coordinating with their insurers. Some of these companies even have dedicated accident response teams that provide guidance on handling these situations correctly.
Companies may also require their drivers to complete an in-house accident report to be reviewed during legal proceedings or insurance claims.
Comply with Post-Accident Testing Requirements
Truck drivers who are involved in accidents may also have to undergo drug and alcohol testing under federal regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates these tests if the crash results in a fatality, certain types of injuries, or vehicle damage requires towing.
Testing helps ensure driver compliance with safety standards and can affect liability determinations.
The long-term consequences of a truck accident extend far beyond the immediate crash.
Truck drivers in accidents may face insurance investigations, legal proceedings, or employer reviews. Maintaining accurate records and cooperating with necessary parties can help resolve matters efficiently.
At Barrera Law Group LLC, we know from experience that truck drivers can protect themselves and others while fulfilling their professional responsibilities by following proper emergency procedures.
A calm and prepared response ensures safety, legal compliance, and a more effective resolution to a difficult situation.