Semi Truck Collision Tips

Nobody sets out to get into a collision while driving. Yet, not a day goes by without someone crashing into someone else. The probability of a collision increases while driving a semi-truck simply because of all the potential blind spots and the size of the darn things. This doesn't mean you'll always be at fault - far from it! In fact, nervous drivers who don't know how to "share the highway" are major factors in a majority of collisions with tractor trailers (including other semi drivers). The first response after a collision is to make sure all those involved are physically okay. If there is an injury, call 911 right away. You can sort out the details of the accident once the injured are taken care of. If you determine there are no injuries there are steps to follow that will ensure you'll be protected. As anyone who watches "The People's Court" will tell you, photos of an accident are crucial to determine who is at fault and the extent of the damages caused by the accident. Although your first inclination might be to clear the road it would be a smarter choice to take photos of the actual accident site and point of impact. You could even shoot the photos from your perspective behind the wheel. Don't just take close-up shots of the damage but wide shots of the whole scene, too. In any event, beware of oncoming traffic. Once you move your truck or car, the stories can start to change. An official police report ofthe accident will go a long way towards determining who will be paying up. When it comes to dealing with insurance companies, it's hard to dispute an official police report. While you're waiting for the police to arrive you should exchange information with the other driver. If tempers are heated, the exchange can take place when officials arrive. This exchange includes: Driver's name, address and phone numbersDriver license numberLicense plate numberInsurance carrier/contactStep 4: Take Note of the Accident Conditions You want to make note of the driving conditions. What was the road like? What time of the day or night did the accident occur? Was weather a factor? Step 5: Get Witness Information If there are any witnesses to the accident that have pulled over to help, get their information as well. That could be a big asset for your case. In any event, any police officers that arrive are also likely to take statements. There might be a temptation to "settle" on the spot but that could come back to haunt you in a big way. As the driver of a semi-truck, you have a big target and that's usually spelled out right on the back of your trailer! You don't have to get into a discussion as to who is at fault. Instead, wait for the police and provide your statement. Finally, if your semi-truck and/or trailer sustains any kind of body damage then you'll want to make sure that it's repaired by an experienced and certified collision repair shop. Even though it might look like a simple dent, there could be deeper problems as a result of the collision. A qualified body repair shop will be able to provide a complete diagnostic review of your rig. Many body shops are ill equipped to manage a large body repair like a big rig. Do a thorough search for one with the equipment and space, along with the reputation, to do the job right and get you back on the road. An author working for Be Locally SEO, Jillynn Stevens writes on a wide range of topics including how-to articles, consumer reviews, professional reports, website content and much more. She recommends Karl Schmidt Collision Repair in Salt Lake City, Utah for semi-truck and other auto body repair. Rate this Article

Semi Truck Collision TipsRating: 5.0/5 (2 votes cast)

Jillynn Stevens has published 8 articles. Article submitted on August 14, 2013. Word count: 595

Availing performance oriented ford trucks can assist you in effectively carrying on business activities. Ford is the company known for providing numerous accessories in relation to interior as well as exterior of the truck.

Written by: Amanda Mattcutt

If you know your car well, you can anticipate repairs. Aside from taking your vehicle to a repair shop for regular brake maintenance every ten thousand to twenty thousand miles, there are some things to listen and feel for that will help you. Read on to learn more.

Written by: Andrea Avery

Most of the time when you find yourself in need of an auto body shop, you have undergone some kind of stressful situation. You may be so anxious to have your car fixed and to get back on the road that any old shop will do. You can however, find the best shop for you with just a little strategy.

Written by: A Stratton

There are so many auto glass scams happening in Arizona, here are some helpful tips on how to pinpoint, and avoid some of the most common scams you might run into.

Written by: Shea Bramer