You are currently viewing What to do if you’re hit by a semi-truck

The road goes ever on

– J.R.R. Tolkien

That’s an unpleasant question, but not as unpleasant as being hit by a semi-truck.

Here’s what to do if you’re hit by a semi-truck (besides, of course, seeking medical attention):

  • Call the police. This allows the police to issue a report, which should contain the identity of the parties involved, the applicable insurance, ownership of the truck, driving violations, and statements. Be sure to ask the police for the report number so you can order the report later.
  • Take photos of any car damage. Also photograph the area of the truck that hit your car and the truck’s license plate.
  • Report the accident to your auto insurance company. Don’t sign anything they send you, however, without first speaking to an attorney.
  • Don’t talk to the trucker’s insurance company, and don’t sign anything that insurance company sends you.
  • Similarly, don’t give a recorded or written statement to either insurance company.

And here are some things to know about trucking accidents:

  • Truckers are subject to state and federal laws and regulations. These laws and regulations govern everything to driving to insurance. It’s best to know what laws and regulations are applicable.
  • A claim could be brought against the driver, if he or she is an independent contractor. Or a claim could be brought against the trucker’s company. Have an attorney assist you in that determination.

To summarize, if you’re injured in a semi-truck accident, you should speak with a Truck Accident Attorney near you before signing anything from any insurance company.

Questions?

Contact Evan W. Walker for a free consultation.

Evan Walker

Evan W. Walker is a La Jolla attorney who has practiced law since 2008. He has practiced law throughout California, Connecticut, and Louisiana.

Evan worked for and defended insurance companies during the first 7 years of his practice. Since 2015, he has represented people with personal injury and property damage claims and insurance disputes.

Evan’s practice is devoted to serious personal injury claims and catastrophic property damage claims. Areas of focus include security claims against bars and other businesses, government tort claims, fire and flood claims, and inverse condemnation. On behalf of clients, Evan has fought insurance firms, international companies, cities, bars, and casinos.

Evan regularly shares his expertise with other attorneys by teaching courses on insurance and inverse condemnation. He has taught several continuing legal education courses to Attorney Credits, a nationwide CLE company, and ProLawCLE, another nationwide CLE company. He also contributes to various podcasts and publications.

Associations:

  • Member, State Bar of California
  • Member, San Diego Bar Association
  • Member, Consumer Attorneys of California
  • Member, Consumer Attorneys of San Diego
  • Member, La Jolla Bar Association
  • Member, La Jolla Village Merchants Association
  • Member, San Diego Chamber of Commerce