Getting into any vehicle accident can be frightening, but when the other vehicle is a commercial truck owned by a company, the situation can feel overwhelming. Many people who say, “I got hit by a company truck” are unsure of their rights, what steps to take immediately after the accident, and how to pursue fair compensation.
Unlike regular car accidents, crashes involving company trucks often involve more complex insurance issues, multiple liable parties, and significant damages. Whether you were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, knowing how to protect yourself legally and financially is essential.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to take if you’ve been hit by a company truck, explain your legal rights, and provide insights on how to seek justice and compensation.
Understanding the Situation: Why Company Truck Accidents Are Different
When you say, “I got hit by a company truck,” you’re not just dealing with the driver who caused the crash—you may also be dealing with the company that owns the truck. This makes the process more complicated because:
- Multiple Parties May Be Liable
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (employer)
- A third-party contractor or maintenance provider
- Insurance companies
- Larger Insurance Policies
Commercial trucks usually carry higher insurance coverage than personal vehicles. While this increases the chance of fair compensation, it also means insurance adjusters may aggressively defend their client to reduce payouts. - Higher Stakes
Accidents involving large trucks often result in more severe injuries, higher medical bills, lost wages, and long-term consequences.
Read too: Craigslist Cars And Trucks – By Owner: Tips, Risks, and How to Get the Best Deals
I Got Hit By A Company Truck: Steps to Take Immediately
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a company truck, here’s what you should do right away:
1. Call 911 and Get Medical Help
Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s important to get medical attention. Truck accidents often cause hidden injuries such as concussions, internal bleeding, or whiplash that may not show symptoms immediately.
2. Gather Evidence at the Scene
- Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Get the truck driver’s name, employer details, and insurance information.
- Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Record the truck’s license plate and company logo.
3. File a Police Report
A police report serves as an official record of the accident and can be critical in establishing fault. Be clear and accurate when providing your statement.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer but avoid giving detailed statements to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
A lawyer experienced in truck accident cases can help protect your rights, deal with aggressive insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Determining Liability in a Company Truck Accident
One of the most important aspects of saying, “I got hit by a company truck,” is figuring out who is legally responsible. Liability may depend on:
- Driver Negligence: Was the driver distracted, fatigued, speeding, or under the influence?
- Employer Negligence: Did the trucking company fail to provide proper training, enforce rest breaks, or maintain the vehicle?
- Third Parties: Did poor road conditions or faulty truck parts contribute to the accident?
In many cases, both the driver and the employer may share liability, especially if the driver was working at the time of the crash.
Legal Rights If You Got Hit by a Company Truck
As a victim, you have rights that protect you after a commercial truck accident:
- Right to Compensation
You may be entitled to recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehab, prescriptions)
- Lost income and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Right to Legal Representation
You are not required to deal with the trucking company or their insurer alone. Having an attorney ensures your rights are protected. - Right to File a Lawsuit
If insurance negotiations fail, you may file a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver, trucking company, or both.
I Got Hit By A Company Truck: How Insurance Works
Commercial trucking accidents usually involve complex insurance layers:
- Primary Coverage: The trucking company’s commercial liability insurance.
- Excess Coverage: Additional policies for larger claims.
- Driver’s Coverage: If the driver owns the truck, their personal insurance may also be involved.
Insurance companies will often try to minimize payouts by:
- Blaming the victim for partial fault
- Offering low settlements quickly
- Delaying claims to pressure you into accepting less
This is why legal representation is so important after a company truck accident.
Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait Too Long
Every state has a deadline (called a statute of limitations) for filing a personal injury claim. In many states, you have two to three years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to compensation.
Common Injuries in Company Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often cause serious injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Victims often suffer:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe burns or lacerations
- Psychological trauma such as PTSD
Documenting your injuries with medical records is essential for building a strong case.
How a Lawyer Can Help
If you’re telling yourself, “I got hit by a company truck, now what?” an attorney can provide guidance in many ways:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Hiring accident reconstruction experts
- Negotiating with insurance adjusters
- Filing lawsuits if necessary
- Ensuring you get full and fair compensation
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if the truck driver was off-duty?
If the driver was not working for the company at the time, their personal insurance may apply instead of the company’s.
2. Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, depending on your state’s comparative negligence laws, you may still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced.
3. How much is my case worth?
The value depends on factors such as injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and the extent of liability.
4. Should I accept the first settlement offer?
Generally, no. Early settlement offers are often much lower than what victims are entitled to.
Final Thoughts
Saying, “I got hit by a company truck,” is not just an expression of frustration—it’s the beginning of a legal and financial process that can be complicated and stressful. But you don’t have to face it alone.
By seeking immediate medical help, gathering strong evidence, understanding your legal rights, and working with an experienced attorney, you can protect yourself and maximize your chances of securing fair compensation.
Truck accidents are life-changing, but with the right steps, you can recover physically, financially, and emotionally.
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