Who do you guys go to if you're in an accident?

[wesross]

Thank god, I have never been involved in a trucking accident. My question to you guys is do you already have legal representation lined up in advance(for you O/O guys)?

And for you truckers in companies, does your company back you up with representation?

Thanks in advance,
Wes

[pcuthbert]

Wes;

When there is a company name on the door, the company will stand up for the driver.

most companies have lawyers on retainer for this type of situation. The insurance companies do too.

If you are worried about your self, then there are a couple of "legal retainer programs" out there that you can find. They run you about $150 a year, but will assist you in almost any situation that involves driving and the law.

[Digital Import]

A lot also depends on the type of accident and the company you work for. There are some companies out there that will hang you out to dry in an attempt to limit their exposure. Also if it is an obviously preventable accident, don't expect anyone to stand up for you. Check out the legal plans, many companies offer payroll deductions for them. If nothing else they are handy in case you get a ticket and of course the peace of mind 'just in case'. They are also *i think* tax deductable (anyone with tax experience please correct if I'm wrong on this though)

[Apostolic]

Well heres my 2 cents according to my long years of expierence as a city driver.

The very first thing if you are ok,or if your not unconsious.
You need to contact your supervisor,and tell them everything you can.

Next is even if you know you were the soul cause of any crash you are ever involved in.
Never,never admit any guilt on your part.

Only answer questions that you are asked by the authorities at the scene.

Don't say anything else.
Take down as much information you can get,by filling out a report for your company.

One other very important thing is how you write up the event.
Even though you have no fault at all.
Just the way you report the details can make a difference in if you may have to share some of the blame.

If your working for any LTL company they usualy are self insured,and they will investgate all the information from the authorities,and your report,to determine who bears the fault,and pays any,or all claims.

[Loon]

Heres are a few rules to follow.
Whip out your cellphone and quickly snap pictures then call 911 then your company.
Seure the scene. Don't talk to anyone about the incident unless it is the responding or investigating officer.
When filling out the accident report, don't write, "When I hit the car", instead say "When the other car hit me" or "When the collision occured".
I don't care if the companies logo is on the door, any company will hang you out to dry if things go bad in a lawsuit. Cover yourself always. Company drivers get company attorneys on all court dates but owner ops are a different story.
Best advice, drive with caution and don't take chances that cause accidents. Look out for the other drivers around you and try to anticipate their actions. You can often prevent being involved in other mishaps. And remember, your company will investigate and code it preventable or non-preventable so watch how you word your accident reports. You can appeal/ write a rebuttal is they code it preventable. It''ll go in your file with the other incident paperwork

[wesross]

Thanks to everyone who responded. The last question I'm left with is if you are fired by your company for something like this, can you get re-hired easily?

Thanks in advance.