What to do if you’re in an accident with a truck
Steps to take after an accident involving a truck
Before taking any of the following actions, make sure you and everyone else involved in the accident are off the road and out of immediate danger. From there:
Call the police (and 911, if anyone was injured)
Get medical attention as needed
Take photos of all involved vehicles, other damage, and the accident scene
Exchange information with the driver—get the truck driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information
Gather witness names and phone numbers
Find out where your vehicle is being moved to (if applicable)
Need to file a claim?
Our in-house claims team will work with you to help resolve your claim quickly and fairly.
Who is at fault in a truck driver accident?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question—ultimately, it depends on the specifics of the accident.
Are truck drivers responsible for damages after an accident?
Similar to the answer above, that depends on the circumstances of the accident. If it’s determined the truck driver was partially or fully at fault, their insurance provider will work with you or your insurance company to resolve the claim.
How to file an insurance claim after a trucking accident
Once you’re able to leave the accident scene, organize the information listed above and reach out to the truck driver’s insurance company and file your third-party claim.
Many insurance companies allow you to submit claims online or over the phone—but keep in mind that you may be required to file your claim over the phone if the accident resulted in injuries or property damage.
Whose insurance company should I call after a trucking accident?
If you believe the truck driver was at fault in the accident, contact their insurance company to file your claim. Additionally, reach out to your own insurance company to let them know what happened—oftentimes, the two companies will work together to determine compensation and resolve the claim.
How long after a trucking accident can I report it?
Each state has its own statute of limitations for the length of time you’re able to file a claim following an incident. That said, the sooner you’re able to file your claim, the better.
What should truck drivers do immediately after an accident?
If you’re a truck driver and you’re involved in an accident, your conduct at the accident scene is crucial. In the immediate aftermath, do your part to help keep everyone safe:
Turn on your four-way flashers and set out warning triangle
Provide first aid—but only if you’re certified
Notify the police as soon as possible
You can also review these helpful trucking safety and accident procedures, which include truck accident prevention strategies.
At Sentry, we provide all of our commercial auto insurance customers with accident kits to help drivers respond safely, professionally, and thoroughly following an accident. Kits include:
Instructions on documenting all needed information
An accident/cargo damage report that should be completed at the scene
Witness cards
Driver’s exoneration form
A postage-paid return envelope
Related resources or services
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
Trucking accident claims can be multifaceted. Learn about the ins and outs of the claims process.
Truck accident causes
Learn about common causes of trucking accidents and useful tips for helping avoid them.