Were You Hit By a Company Vehicle: Here’s What to Do Right After

January 27, 2023 Insights

Company Vehicle

In some automobile accidents, the drivers are not both regular individuals. In these cases, one of the drivers might be working at the time of the crash and driving a company car. If you are struck by a commercial vehicle, the legal procedures and the possibilities for obtaining financial compensation may be different than for a normal car and driver.

Here’s what you need to do right after the accident:

1. Call 911

In the event of a car accident, it is important to call 911 and contact the police immediately. Although certain criteria in some states may require you to report an accident, it is generally advisable to report any accident involving a company vehicle. Obtaining a police report can provide evidence of the details of the accident, including any traffic violations that may have occurred at the time of the crash. This information can be used to protect the rights of everyone involved.

2. Get the Company Driver’s Information

After a car accident, it is important to take down the other driver’s information, including their name, company, vehicle number, insurance information, contact information, and any other information that may be relevant. Additionally, if there are any witnesses to the accident, they must also write down their names and phone numbers.

3. Document the Crash Site

Before departing, document the crash site by taking photographs and videos. Capture images of any property damage, and note any signs or pieces of debris in the road, blocked traffic signs, and the interior of the other driver’s car. Also, research any nearby surveillance or traffic cameras that may have captured the accident.

4. File an Insurance Claim

Suppose you’re injured in an accident involving a company-owned or operated vehicle, such as a commercial truck, delivery van, corporate car, utility truck, or moving vehicle. In that case, the insurance process can be more complicated. Instead of only dealing with the driver of the other vehicle, you may be able to sue the company as well. This is because vicarious liability holds the employer or company responsible for their employees’ actions. If your own personal injury protection insurance doesn’t cover your losses, you may pursue this option.

5. Find a Car Accident Attorney

Hiring an attorney is a great way to ensure you get the full and fair compensation you deserve after a claim. Your lawyer can represent you in negotiations with the insurance company and ensure you are not taken advantage of. They can also fight for the maximum compensation within the company’s policy limits, even if it means going to trial. With their help, your rights and interests will be protected throughout the process.

Conclusion

If you have been hit by a company vehicle, it is important to take the right steps to protect your rights and interests. The first step is to ensure that you seek medical attention for any injuries you may have sustained due to the accident. It is also important to document the accident, including taking pictures of the scene, exchanging contact information with the driver, and obtaining any witnesses’ contact information. Finally, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible is critical to ensure your rights are fully protected.

At Circeo Law Firm, our award-winning Kentucky injury attorneys will aggressively advocate for justice if you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence. Through our legal team’s passion, tenacity, and talent, we have helped obtain hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients through verdicts and settlements. If you need a truck accident attorney in Kentucky, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us and let us know how we can help!