5 Critical Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident

Running into an 18-wheeler is terrifying. The sheer size and weight of a commercial truck mean the damages are often catastrophic. But what happens in the minutes, hours, and days after the crash is critical to your ability to recover compensation.

Here are the five most important steps you must take.

1. Call 911 and Ensure a Police Report is Filed

Never let the truck driver talk you out of calling the police. You need an official record of the scene. Commercial drivers effectively work for their insurance companies from the moment of impact. You need law enforcement to document skid marks, vehicle positions, and witness statements immediately.

2. Preserve Evidence at the Scene

If you are physically able:

• Take photos: Get pictures of the truck's logo, license plate, and DOT number.
• Photograph the road: Look for skid marks or debris fields.
• Get witness info: Names and phone numbers are gold.

3. Do Not Sign Anything from the Trucking Company

Trucking companies often dispatch "rapid response teams" to the scene of serious accidents. Their goal is to minimize liability. They may offer you a quick settlement or ask you to sign a statement. Do not sign anything. Do not give a recorded statement until you have spoken to a lawyer.

4. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Adrenaline can mask serious injuries like spinal fractures or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Go to the ER or urgent care immediately. A gap in treatment gives the insurance company an excuse to claim your injuries aren't related to the crash.

5. Contact a Trucking Accident Attorney (Not Just a Car Wreck Lawyer)

Trucking cases involve the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). You need an attorney who knows how to request the driver's electronic logbooks (ELDs), maintenance records, and hiring files before they are destroyed.

At Addison Law, we move immediately to issue a "spoliation letter" to the trucking company, legally forcing them to preserve all evidence. If you've been hit by a semi, do not wait.