What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Denver
A truck accident on a busy Denver highway like I-70 or I-25 can be a terrifying and chaotic event. While your first instinct might be to panic, a series of urgent and deliberate steps you take in the immediate aftermath can be critical for your health and the strength of your future legal claim. The sheer size and weight of a commercial truck mean the injuries and damages are often severe, and the legal process that follows is far more complex than a standard car accident. At Treviño Law, our truck accident attorneys are here to guide you through these challenging times. This guide outlines the essential actions you must take to protect your health and your right to fair compensation.
1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your physical well-being is the top priority. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from oncoming traffic. Once safe, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to be evaluated by a medical professional. Adrenaline can mask pain, and serious injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or a traumatic brain injury may not present symptoms for hours or even days. A prompt medical examination creates a vital record of your injuries, linking them directly to the accident, which is essential for your legal claim.
2. Contact Law Enforcement and Document the Scene
The police report is a cornerstone of any truck accident investigation. When law enforcement arrives, provide a clear and concise account of what happened, but **never admit fault** or speculate about the cause of the accident. While waiting for the police, if it is safe to do so, use your phone to:
- Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage from multiple angles, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs.
- Capture close-up photos of your injuries.
- Take a picture of the truck, the license plate, and any identifying information on the side of the truck (company name, USDOT number).
3. Collect Information Without Admitting Fault
Politely collect the following information from all parties involved, including the truck driver:
- Name and contact information.
- Insurance details.
- Trucking company name.
- Witness names and contact information.
Be cautious in your conversation with the truck driver. Do not apologize, accept blame, or discuss the specifics of the accident, as these statements can be used against you later by the insurance company.
4. Preserve Evidence and Understand the Timeline
Unlike car accidents, truck accidents involve a wealth of critical evidence that can disappear quickly. Trucking companies are required to maintain a variety of records, including driver logs, maintenance reports, and black box data. While Colorado’s statute of limitations for motor vehicle accident claims is generally three years from the date of the crash (as per CRS § 13-80-101), it is a mistake to wait. An experienced attorney will act immediately to send a spoliation letter, legally requiring the trucking company to preserve all evidence related to the crash.
5. Do Not Discuss Your Case with Insurance Adjusters
The truck driver’s insurance company will likely contact you quickly. Remember, their primary goal is to minimize their payout. Do not give a recorded statement or accept any settlement offers, as these initial offers are often a fraction of what your case is truly worth. Direct all communication from insurance companies to your attorney.
Contact a Denver Truck Accident Attorney Immediately
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident is overwhelming, and trucking companies and their insurers have vast resources to fight your claim. By contacting an experienced Denver truck accident attorney at Treviño Law, you put a powerful advocate in your corner who will handle every aspect of your case, from evidence preservation to aggressive negotiations. Let us protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.