Accidents happen. But when accidents hit those who make a living on the road, they can feel more stressful. If you’re a trucker, then knowing what you should do if you crash on the job is important to protect your safety and your career. Whether it’s a fender bender or a more serious accident, the actions you take immediately following an incident can have significant implications for the future.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first—keep your cool. It’s easier said than done, but taking a moment to breathe and assess the situation can make a world of difference. Check yourself for injuries before assessing the condition of your truck and any other vehicles involved. Safety comes first, so make sure to set up any necessary signals or cones to alert other drivers of the accident site if you can do so safely.
Contact Your Employer
Once you’ve ensured your own safety and that of others, the next step is to contact your employer. Keep the communication clear and concise, providing them with key details of the incident. Make this call as soon as possible, as your employer will likely need to initiate their accident protocol, which may include legal assistance, insurance claims, and logistical support for any cargo you were carrying. Being upfront and honest with your employer about the accident details is fundamental to maintaining trust and protecting your position.
Gather Evidence
Next, start gathering evidence. Use your smartphone to take photos of the accident scene from different angles, including any damages to all vehicles involved. Exchange information with the other party if possible, including names, contact information, insurance details, and any relevant vehicle information. This evidence can be crucial for insurance claims and legal matters that might follow.
Don’t Rush
This is where patience really becomes a virtue. Don’t rush into making statements or accepting blame at the scene. Everything you say can and will be used in the assessment of the accident, so speak carefully or, if possible, consult with your employer or a legal advisor before making detailed statements. Accidents are one of the biggest causes of downtime for truckers, and there’s no way around that. Your priority should be to cooperate with law enforcement and emergency responders, providing them with the necessary information without speculating about the causes of the accident.
Remembering what truckers should do if they crash on the job can help you navigate the aftermath of an accident with as little stress as possible. Stay calm, gather evidence without rushing, and prioritize safety above all. These steps help manage the situation more effectively and protect your interests in the long run.
