10/17/2025
Hurt in a Truck Accident : Steps to Protect Your Claim
Accidents involving large commercial trucks, such as a tractor-trailer or semi truck, can be catastrophic, and the steps you take immediately after can make a big difference in your recovery — both physically and financially.
Whether you’re searching for a truck accident attorney to fight for compensation or just trying to understand the process, here’s what you need to know.
You Were Just in an Accident with a Tractor-Trailer. What’s the First Thing You Should Do?
If you’ve just been in an accident with a tractor-trailer, call 911 immediately — even if you think you’re okay.
Truck accidents often cause injuries that aren’t immediately obvious. It’s crucial to get checked out by a medical professional and to make sure a police report is filed. That report could be vital later on.
Do You Need to Call Your Insurance Company, Even If You Weren’t At Fault?
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, you still need to notify your insurance company. Keep it simple: provide the basic facts and avoid speculation.
Don’t admit fault or agree to any recorded statements until you’ve talked to an experienced truck accident attorney. Keep in mind — trucking companies and their insurers have entire teams working to limit their liability from the moment a crash happens.
The Trucking Company Insurance Adjuster Already Called You. Should You Talk to Them?
Not yet. It’s best to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney first. These adjusters are trained to get you to settle quickly — often before you know the full extent of your injuries or expenses. Once you sign or say the wrong thing, it’s hard to undo.
How is a Truck Accident Different From a Regular Car Accident?
Truck accidents are different from car accidents in a lot of ways. There are usually more layers of responsibility — like the driver, the trucking company, the maintenance contractor, and even the company that loaded the truck.
Federal trucking regulations also come into play. That’s why having an experienced truck accident attorney matters — we know how to dig into those details and find out who’s really responsible.
What Kind of Compensation Could You Be Entitled To?
Every case is different, but common damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Potential punitive damages (especially if there was negligence, such as a driver who was overworked or under the influence)
An experienced attorney will make sure nothing is missed when calculating what you’re owed.
How Soon Should You Call a Lawyer After a Truck Accident?
As soon as possible. Trucking companies often send investigators within hours of an accident to start building their defense. You need someone on your side doing the same — protecting evidence like:
- Dashcam footage
- Black box data
- Maintenance logs
The sooner your attorney can get involved, the better.
Can’t Afford a Lawyer Right Now? That’s Okay.
At Deuterman Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything upfront — we only get paid if we win your case.
The Best Next Step? Focus on Healing
Let us take care of the legal battle while you focus on recovery. Call or message Deuterman Law Group today for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your rights, handle the insurance maze, and hold the trucking company accountable.
Downloadable Checklist: What to Do After a Truck Accident
Use this step-by-step checklist to protect your health, your rights, and your claim.
DISCLAIMER: The content on this blog is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and shouldn’t be treated as such. Laws can change, and the outcome of a legal matter often depends on the specific facts involved. What you read here may not apply to your unique situation.
If you have questions or need guidance on a personal injury matter, we invite you to contact us. Our team is here to listen, provide clarity, and help you understand your legal options.
