What to Do After an Accident: Insurance Steps for Truckers

Even the best drivers can’t control everything on the road. Whether it’s bad weather, distracted motorists, or unexpected cargo shifts — accidents happen.

Knowing what to do after a trucking accident can make the difference between a quick resolution and weeks of delay. This guide covers the essential steps to take immediately after an accident and how to handle your trucking insurance claim efficiently.

 Your safety — and the safety of others — always comes first.

• Pull over safely and turn on hazard lights.
   
• Set up reflective triangles or flares to warn approaching traffic.
   
• Call 911 if anyone is injured or if there’s road debris or fire.
   
• Do not leave the scene until police give clearance.
   

🧰 Tip: Keep an emergency kit in your truck with first-aid supplies, reflective vests, and a flashlight.

 No matter how minor the accident seems, always call the police.
A police report serves as an official record for your insurance claim and helps protect you legally.

When officers arrive:

• Stay calm and provide accurate information.
   
• Avoid speculation or admitting fault.
   
• Ask for the report number, officer name, and badge ID.
   

This report will be one of the first documents your insurance company requests.
 

 Accurate documentation can make or break your claim.
Use your smartphone to capture clear, timestamped photos of:

• All vehicles involved (front, sides, rear)
   
• License plates and DOT numbers
   
• Cargo area (if damaged)
   
• Skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs
   
• Any visible injuries
   

Also record:

• Other drivers’ insurance details
   
• Witness names and contact info
   
• The exact location, time, and date of the incident
   

The more detailed your evidence, the smoother your insurance process will be.

 As soon as it’s safe, notify your dispatcher or fleet manager.
They may arrange towing, transfer cargo, or notify the shipper.

Then, contact your insurance agent right away to report the accident.
Provide:

• Police report or case number
   
• Photos and documentation
   
• Vehicle and cargo details
   

At Insurance Professional Agency Inc, our claims team helps agents and drivers file quickly, coordinate repairs, and avoid downtime.
 

 Your insurer will assign a claims adjuster who’ll guide you through the process.
Be prepared to share:

• The police report
   
• Photos and witness statements
   
• Repair estimates or tow receipts
   
• Bill of lading and driver log
   

Stay in touch with your adjuster and respond promptly to requests for documents or statements.

•  Don’t sign any paperwork from another party without your insurer’s review.
   
• Avoid posting accident details or photos on social media.
   
• Keep copies of all receipts for towing, medical expenses, or repairs.
   

If cargo was damaged, your Motor Truck Cargo Insurance may cover it — but it’s often a separate claim. Ask your agent to guide you through both.

 Once your claim is approved:

• Choose an approved repair facility if possible.
   
• Keep all invoices and communications.
   
• Request a re-inspection if repairs are incomplete.
   

For leased or financed equipment, contact your lienholder before starting repairs — they may require authorization.

 Every accident is a chance to improve your safety program.
After your claim is resolved:

• Review what worked and what didn’t.
   
• Update your internal safety training.
   
• Store all documents securely for compliance and audits.
   

A culture of safety helps lower future insurance premiums and reduces downtime.