Experiencing a truck accident—especially in a busy city like Austin, Texas—can be overwhelming. From ensuring your safety to protecting your legal rights, knowing what to do in those critical first minutes and hours is essential. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you act confidently after a truck collision.
1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
Your top priority is safety. If you’re able, move your vehicle off the roadway to the shoulder and activate your hazard lights. Avoid staying in a dangerous location. Quickly assess your condition and the condition of others involved. Even minor injuries—like whiplash or concussions—can manifest hours or days later after a truck or car crash, so call 911 immediately.
2. Call the Police and Create an Official Record
In Texas, you are legally required to report any accident involving an injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Call 911 and wait for law enforcement to arrive—typically the Austin Police Department or Texas Highway Patrol. Provide clear, factual information without speculating or admitting fault. Once on scene, the officer will file an essential crash report.
3. Document the Scene Thoroughly
If it’s safe, use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Capture the following:
- Damage to all vehicles, including skid marks and debris
- Truck details: license plate, DOT number, company name and logo
- Roadway features: signage, lane markings, weather conditions
- Visible injuries, others involved, and the scene layout
- Surrounding danger zones or hazards
Also, write down your recollection of exactly what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind.
4. Exchange Information Carefully
Gather contact and insurance information from all involved parties, including:
- Truck driver’s name, CDL, insurance, employer, and USDOT number
- Your contact and insurance details
- Witness statements with full contact info
5. Seek Medical Evaluation Immediately
Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries are not immediately visible. Medical documentation not only ensures proper treatment but also strengthens your legal case. Keep all records, bills, and receipts organized.
6. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the accident to your insurer promptly. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. If contacted by the truck company’s insurer, do not provide a statement without legal counsel.
7. Protect Evidence Relating to the Truck
Commercial trucks often carry black boxes (Event Data Recorders) and logbooks that can contain critical evidence. Preserve any documents or communications from insurers or repair shops. This information can be vital to proving negligence.
8. Avoid Admitting Fault
Never apologize or accept blame—even casually. Statements like “I didn’t see you” can be used against you. Stick to neutral, factual language with everyone involved.
9. Consult an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accident cases involve multiple layers: federal regulations, corporate liability, and often high-stakes insurance policies. A knowledgeable Austin truck accident lawyer can help you gather evidence, preserve records, and negotiate fair compensation.
10. Be Mindful of Legal Deadlines
Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to recover damages. It’s best to act quickly while evidence and witness recollections are still fresh.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Future Today
After a truck accident in Austin, staying calm and methodical is your best defense. Focus first on safety and health—then build a strong evidence trail: photographs, witness statements, medical documentation, and timely insurance notification. Avoid missteps like admitting fault or dealing with insurers without support— contact Joe Lopez Law for a free consultation today.
With experience handling complex truck accident cases in Texas, we’ll protect your rights, pursue full compensation, and handle negotiations with trucking insurers—so you can focus on recovery. Acting quickly gives you the best chance to protect your health, your rights, and your financial future.
