What Steps Should You Take After a Commercial Vehicle Hits Your Car?

The moments following a crash with a large delivery truck or company van can leave you shaken and deeply stressed. Because commercial vehicles carry immense weight and size, they frequently cause severe injuries and massive property damage to smaller cars. When you face the terrifying reality of a commercial collision, you need a clear path forward. Brydon, Swearengen & England can help you build a comprehensive claim so you can seek the compensation you need for your recovery.

If you were hit by a commercial vehicle, you should immediately:

• Identify the driver and the company they work for.
• Understand the unique factors of commercial claims.
• Preserve all evidence of vehicle damage and physical injuries.
• Contact a legal team early to protect your rights.

How Do You Identify the Company and Driver After a Crash?

Before leaving the scene, you must collect specific details. Finding out exactly who hit you is a vital part of building your case. Talk to the driver to gather the necessary facts so you can file your claim accurately.

You should write down:

• The name and contact details of the driver.
• The license plate number of the truck.
• The name of the trucking company and its insurance information.
• The Department of Transportation number on the side of the truck.

Gathering these details right away helps your lawyer figure out who is liable for the crash. This basic information forms the foundation of your future personal injury claim.

Why Are Commercial Vehicle Claims More Complex Than Standard Car Crashes?

A standard car crash usually involves two drivers. A commercial crash can involve multiple responsible parties. The driver, the parent company, the cargo loader and the mechanic could all share the blame.

These businesses also carry massive insurance policies. Their insurance adjusters will fight hard to reduce your payout to protect their bottom line. Commercial drivers must also follow strict federal regulations. They have limits on how many hours they can drive without resting. If a fatigued driver violates these rules to meet a deadline, the company might try to minimize the severity of the violation. You need someone who understands their specific tactics and can level the playing field on your behalf.

How Can You Preserve Evidence of Vehicle Damage and Injuries?

Evidence disappears quickly after a traffic collision. If you are physically able to do so safely, document the scene before the police clear the road. Use your phone to capture the reality of the situation.

Make sure you capture:

• Photos of the damage to your car.
• Pictures of the commercial vehicle.
• Videos showing skid marks, traffic signs and weather conditions.
• Names and phone numbers of any witnesses.

In addition to property damage, you must document your physical condition. Go to the hospital or a doctor immediately after leaving the crash site. Creating a formal medical record links your injuries directly to the accident.

When Should You Contact Legal Counsel After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?

You should speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. Taking on a large corporation alone is incredibly difficult. By calling a law firm early, you protect yourself from aggressive insurance adjusters who want you to settle for less money than you deserve.

Your legal team will gather the police report, review traffic camera footage and speak to witnesses. The legal team at Brydon, Swearengen & England will step in to handle the communication and relentlessly pursue justice for your injuries. This allows you to focus strictly on your medical recovery instead of worrying about legal paperwork.

Brydon, Swearengen & England Can Help You Find Justice

Dealing with a commercial vehicle accident requires quick action and strong support. Identifying the company, saving evidence and acting fast can make a massive difference in your case. If you suffered a personal injury in Jefferson City or the surrounding Missouri areas, Brydon, Swearengen & England is ready to help. We offer compassionate, client-centered representation and a history of winning results. Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.