Commercial vehicle accidents
If you were to get in an accident with a commercial vehicle, it’s important to know how the process may differ than if you were in an accident with a passenger vehicle. Let’s explore more about these vehicles and address common questions.
What’s considered a commercial vehicle?
A commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is typically one that’s used to transport goods or people on behalf of a business. Businesses and organizations of all sizes use these vehicles, providing a valuable service that helps streamline commerce and support communities.
CMVs include, but aren’t limited to:
Semi-trucks
Tankers
Delivery vans
Company cars
Box trucks
Tow trucks
Coach buses
Trailers
Heavy equipment
How is a commercial vehicle accident different from a car accident?
Each claim is unique, and a multitude of factors may impact the complexity of the investigation into the cause and liability of a commercial vehicle accident. Providing accurate information may help to prevent delays throughout the claims resolution process.
What do I do if I’m in an accident with a commercial vehicle?
If you’re involved in an accident with a truck or other commercial vehicle, there are several basic steps you need to take at the scene in the immediate aftermath:
Make sure your vehicle is in a safe location if possible
Check on the other parties involved if it’s safe to do so
Help the injured to the best of your abilities
Call 911 to report the crash and any injuries
Exchange insurance information with others involved in the crash
Take pictures of the crash from multiple angles and get contact information from other parties and witnesses
If you can, get the police report number and contact information for tow companies and others responsible for clean-up
When following these steps, make sure you and the other people involved in the crash are safe from the traffic around you to help avoid any further incidents or injuries.
The documentation you gather about the accident—like photos, witness statements, or a police report—will be vital for the claims process to be resolved quickly and fairly. With this information in hand, reach out to your insurance provider to let them know about the accident.
Commercial vehicle accident FAQs
It’s not required that an attorney file your claim. At Sentry, we have an experienced, accessible in-house claims team that can help you through the process. They work diligently to resolve truck accident claims fairly and efficiently.
The timeline of a claim—from filing to resolution—often varies. To help the process go as smoothly as possible, file your third-party claim as soon as you can after the accident, provide necessary evidence, and check in on your claim’s status frequently.
Unless your policy states that you must report a claim, it’s not typically required. However, it’s best to file one in most cases. Explore our resource page for more information.
This can vary, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Overall, it’s best to get all the insurance companies involved—they’ll work together to determine fault and compensation.
Related resources
The basics of trucking accidents
It’s important to know the part you can play in reducing trucking accidents. Learn about the different types of accidents and prevention strategies.
How to file a trucking accident claim
Learn how truck accident claims work—including how they differ from car accidents, and how you can help ensure a smooth process.