Accidents involving big rigs can be scary, even if they’re just minor fender-benders. You might think, “It’s just a little damage—should I even bother?” But dealing with an eighteen-wheeler accident, even a minor one, is way different than a regular car crash. There are legal considerations, insurance complexities, and potential hidden injuries that could cost you down the line.
So, what do you do after a minor eighteen-wheeler truck accident in Arizona? Buckle up—we’re about to break it all down for you!
Step-by-Step Guide on What to Do After a Minor Eighteen-Wheeler Truck Accident in Arizona
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
First things first—check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if everyone seems fine, call 911 anyway. Truck accidents are taken seriously, and having a police report will be crucial for any claims later on.
2. Move to Safety (If Possible)
If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them out of traffic. Arizona law encourages drivers to clear the roadway to prevent further accidents. But if there’s significant damage, injuries, or the truck is blocking traffic, leave everything as is and wait for authorities.
3. Exchange Information
Swap details with the truck driver, but don’t just grab their name and number. You’ll need:
- Their full name and contact info
- The trucking company’s name and contact
- The truck’s license plate number
- Insurance details (both personal and company policy)
- The truck’s DOT number (usually on the side of the cab)
4. Document the Scene
Your smartphone is your best friend here! Snap photos and videos of:
- The vehicles’ positions and damage
- Road conditions (wet pavement, skid marks, debris, etc.)
- Traffic signs, signals, or obstructions
- Any visible injuries
- The truck’s cargo, if visible
5. Gather Witness Statements
If there are any bystanders who saw the accident, get their names and contact details. Witnesses can be invaluable if liability is disputed later.
6. File a Police Report
Even if it’s just a minor accident, insist on an official police report. Officers will document details that can back up your claim if there are disputes with the trucker, the trucking company, or insurers.
7. Seek Medical Attention
You might feel fine, but adrenaline can mask injuries. Whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries sometimes don’t show symptoms right away. Get checked out by a doctor ASAP.
Legal Considerations After a Minor Eighteen-Wheeler Truck Accident in Arizona
Should You Contact a Lawyer?
Absolutely! Even minor truck accidents can become legal nightmares. Trucking companies have powerful insurance teams that may try to minimize your claim. A personal injury attorney can help ensure you get fair compensation.
Arizona’s Comparative Fault Law
Arizona follows a pure comparative fault rule. That means even if you were partially at fault, you could still recover damages—just reduced by your percentage of fault. If the truck driver was 80% responsible and you were 20% at fault, you could still get 80% of the compensation.
Trucking Company Liability
Unlike regular car accidents, trucking accidents involve multiple parties, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo company (if unsecured cargo contributed to the crash)
- Maintenance providers (if faulty brakes or mechanical issues played a role)
This makes liability more complex, so legal guidance is key.
Insurance and Compensation After a Truck Accident in Arizona
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Trucking companies have aggressive insurers who may try to get you to settle fast—and for less than you deserve. Here’s how to handle them:
- Don’t admit fault (even casually, like saying “I didn’t see them coming!”)
- Don’t accept a quick settlement offer without legal advice
- Refer them to your lawyer if you’ve hired one
What Damages Can You Claim?
Even if it was a minor accident, you could be entitled to compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs
- Medical expenses (including future treatments)
- Lost wages if you missed work
- Pain and suffering
Common Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I really need a lawyer for a minor truck accident?
Yes! Trucking companies don’t play fair, and even minor crashes can turn into big headaches if injuries or disputes arise.
2. What if the truck driver refuses to give me their insurance info?
Call the police and let them handle it. In Arizona, drivers involved in an accident must provide this information.
3. How long do I have to file a claim in Arizona?
Arizona’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date. For property damage, you also have two years.
4. Can I just settle the damages privately with the truck driver?
Not a good idea! Truckers work for companies, and settlements should go through proper legal channels to protect you.
Conclusion
So, what do you do after a minor eighteen-wheeler truck accident in Arizona? Stay calm, gather evidence, report it, and protect yourself legally. Even if the damage seems minor, trucking accidents can have serious long-term consequences. Don’t let the trucking company or their insurers take advantage of you—know your rights and take action!
If you ever find yourself in this situation, reach out to a professional who can guide you through the process.