A truck accident, and the shock, confusion, and pain that come with it, can make it hard to know what to do first. You may be dealing with serious injuries, vehicle damage, or questions about who’s responsible and how to get help.
Knowing what to do after a truck accident and in the weeks that follow can make a difference in your physical recovery and your ability to pursue compensation.
At The Beliz Law Firm, we understand how confusing this time can be. Founding attorney Michael A. Beliz has spent nearly two decades helping injured Californians recover after devastating collisions.
Below, we outline the key steps you should take after a truck accident to protect yourself and your future, including who you should call after a truck accident and how long you have to bring a truck accident claim.
What to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident
After a truck accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn first. These crashes often cause serious injuries, extensive property damage, and emotional distress.
Below are the key steps to take immediately after a semi-truck accident in California. Each one is vital in protecting your safety and preserving your right to compensation.
Step 1: Call 911 and Move to Safety
The priority is everyone’s safety. Call 911 right away, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Emergency responders can provide medical aid, control the scene, and prepare a report that becomes a key piece of evidence later.
If it’s safe, move your vehicle to the shoulder or another secure area and turn on your hazard lights. Staying visible and out of traffic lanes helps prevent secondary collisions.
Step 2: Get Medical Attention — Even If You Feel Fine
Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or days after a crash. Many serious injuries, such as internal bleeding, brain injuries, or whiplash, don’t show symptoms right away.
See a doctor as soon as possible and follow all treatment or follow-up care recommendations. Your medical records will connect your injuries directly to the crash, strengthening your claim.
Step 3: Document the Scene
Truck accidents often involve complex factors like braking distances, cargo weight, and road conditions. Make sure you take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage;
- Skid marks, debris, or fluid spills;
- Traffic signals, signage, and road conditions; and
- Visible injuries to yourself or passengers.
These images can provide crucial evidence later about impact force, vehicle positioning, and possible negligence.
Step 4: Exchange Information
Gather essential details from the truck driver and others involved in or witnessing the crash. This information will be critical for insurance purposes and your attorney’s investigation. Be sure to collect:
- Full names, phone numbers, and driver’s license numbers;
- The trucking company’s name;
- Insurance policy details for all drivers;
- License plate numbers; and
- Contact information for any witnesses.
Having accurate and complete information ensures that your lawyer can identify every potentially responsible party and follow up with insurers or investigators later.
Witness testimony can also be invaluable in recounting the events of the accident.
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Legal help after a truck accident is essential. Truck accidents are often more complex than standard car crashes. Multiple parties may share fault, including the driver, trucking company, cargo loader, or manufacturer. A lawyer experienced in truck accident cases can help identify all responsible parties, gather crucial evidence, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.
At The Beliz Law Firm, we:
- Investigate driver logs, black box data, and company maintenance records;
- Work with accident reconstruction and medical experts;
- Negotiate directly with insurance adjusters; and
- Prepare your case for trial if necessary.
Our goal is to relieve your stress and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
Step 6: Follow Through on Medical Treatment
Your medical recovery doesn’t end after your first hospital visit. Following through with all recommended care is vital both for your health and legal claim.
Consistent treatment helps your body heal properly and shows that you’re taking your recovery seriously. Skipping appointments or stopping treatment early can weaken your case because insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t as severe as you claim.
Keep in close contact with your doctors and be honest about your symptoms. If you notice new pain or complications, document them and share them with your physician immediately.
Step 7: Keep Every Record
Truck accident cases rely heavily on documentation. The more detailed your records, the stronger your claim. Create a dedicated file (digital or physical) for every piece of information related to your accident and recovery, including:
- Medical documents—hospital records, diagnostic tests, prescriptions, and treatment notes;
- Financial records—receipts for medications, medical equipment, and transportation to appointments;
- Employment documentation—proof of missed workdays, tax returns, employment contract, and work schedules;
- Evidence of accident—police reports, photographs, repair estimates, and witness statements; and
- Communication logs—emails or letters from insurance companies, adjusters, or other parties involved.
Staying organized helps your attorney build a clear and complete picture of your losses, not just your medical expenses, but also the emotional and financial impact on your daily life. These records are critical when negotiating with insurance companies or, if necessary, presenting your case in court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in California
Read on for more information about what to do after a truck accident.
How Long Do I Have to Bring a Truck Accident Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for bringing a truck accident lawsuit is two years from the date of the crash in most instances. If you miss that deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages entirely.
It’s essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the crash so they can preserve evidence, gather records, and ensure your claim is filed within the correct time limits.
Who Should I Call After a Truck Accident?
Knowing who to call after a truck accident can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds. Here are the most important calls to make:
- Call 911 immediately. Emergency services should be your first call. Police officers will document the scene and file an official accident report, while medical personnel can treat anyone who is injured.
- Call a trusted family member or friend. If you’re too injured or shaken to handle the details at the scene, a loved one can help document evidence, take photos, or communicate with first responders.
- Call your insurance company. Notify your insurer about the crash as soon as possible, but keep your statement brief and factual. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about what caused the collision.
- Call a California truck accident lawyer. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, manage communications with insurers, and take steps to protect your claim from the start.
Making these calls promptly ensures that the right people are informed, evidence is preserved, and your next steps are guided by professionals who can provide valuable assistance.
The Insurance Company Keeps Contacting Me. Should I Speak with Them?
It’s common for insurance adjusters to reach out quickly after a truck accident, sometimes within hours. While they may sound sympathetic, their goal is to minimize the amount the insurance company pays. They might ask for a recorded statement, request access to your medical records, or offer a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.
You are not required to speak with them directly. In fact, it’s often best not to. Politely tell the adjuster that an attorney represents you and provide your lawyer’s contact information. Once you have legal representation, your attorney can handle all communication on your behalf, ensuring you don’t say or sign anything that could harm your case.
Do I Need Legal Help After a Truck Accident?
Yes. Truck accident claims are often far more complicated than regular car accident cases. They typically involve multiple parties. Each party may have its own insurance carrier and legal team, which can complicate the determination of liability.
Additionally, trucking companies must adhere to strict federal and state safety regulations. Proving negligence often requires reviewing driver logs, black box data, maintenance records, and company safety policies. Obtaining these details can be challenging without legal assistance.
An experienced truck accident attorney can:
- Investigate the crash,
- Gather and preserve key evidence,
- Determine who is responsible, and
- Negotiate with powerful insurance companies on behalf of their clients.
Having legal help ensures your rights are protected and that your claim is built on solid evidence from the start.
Contact The Beliz Law Firm for Legal Help After a Truck Accident
At The Beliz Law Firm, we’ve helped injured Californians navigate the aftermath of serious truck accidents since 2011. We combine small-firm attention with big-firm results, providing every client with personal, one-on-one communication with their attorney.
If you’re wondering what to do after a semi-truck accident, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Contact The Beliz Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation and start rebuilding your life with trusted legal guidance.