What Should a Truck Driver do After an Accident?

  • Stop the vehicle and pull off to the side of the road if the vehicle is not incapacitated
  • Call first responders to administer aid and complete and investigation
  • If able, place cones, flares, and warning triangles at scene to serve as a warning to oncoming traffic
  • Do not admit fault in the accident
  • Contact your employer to advise of the accident
  • Record all pertinent information regarding the accident:
    • Time, date, and exact location of the accident
    • Any recollection of vehicle malfunction leading up to the accident
    • Exchange contact information with the other driver to include insurance carrier information
    • Names and contact information for any witnesses to the accident
    • Names and badge numbers of investigating officers as well as information specific to collection of the police report

What should a truck driver have available in his glove box in preparation for an accident?

  • Vehicle registration
  • Identification cards
  • Road flares
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Basic tool kit
  • Pad and paper