Filing a truck accident claim can feel confusing and stressful, especially when you’re still trying to process what exactly happened. In the rush to respond, many people make quick decisions that seem harmless in the moment but end up weakening their claim or slowing down the compensation process. Knowing what mistakes to avoid helps you stay focused and protects your legal rights from the very beginning.
This awareness becomes even more important when the crash involves a major delivery vehicle, especially in cases of negligence resulting in a UPS truck crash. Large trucking companies have experienced insurance teams, strict procedures, and detailed investigation processes, which means even a small mistake on your part can be used against you.
Mistakes to Avoid During the Initial Accident
Do Not Flee the Scene
Leaving the accident scene is one of the most serious mistakes you can make. Staying there until the police arrive ensures you comply with the law and protect your legal interests. Fleeing can damage your credibility and weaken your claim.
Do Not Apologize
Apologizing may feel polite, but during an accident, it can be misunderstood as admitting fault. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used by insurance companies to argue that you accepted responsibility. It’s better to stay calm, avoid giving opinions, and only exchange necessary information.
Call the Police and Get an Official Report
A police report is one of the strongest pieces of evidence in any truck accident claim because it provides an official and unbiased record of what happened, including the location, vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and witness statements. These details help establish the facts clearly and prevent confusion later.
Without this document, your claim depends only on personal statements, which insurance companies can easily question or challenge. Having a police report adds credibility to your case and supports your version of events with reliable, documented evidence.
Gather Evidence Immediately
If you are able to move safely after the accident, take photos and videos of the vehicles involved, your injuries, the road, skid marks, and anything else related to the crash. These images capture the scene exactly as it was and can be very useful later when you need to explain what happened. If the trucking company questions your claim or tries to present a different version of the event, this visual evidence makes it easier to show the truth and support your side.
Seek Immediate Medical Treatment
Even if your injuries seem minor, always get checked by a doctor right away. Some injuries take hours or days to show symptoms, and delaying treatment can give insurers a reason to argue that you were not hurt or that the injury was not related to the crash.
Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Insurance Companies
Do Not Speak with the Trucking Company’s Insurer
The trucking company’s insurance team is trained to minimize payouts. Their goal is to collect statements from you that could reduce their liability. Anything you say, even if harmless, can be twisted and used against you. It’s best to let your attorney handle all communication.
Do Not Give a Recorded Statement
Insurers often ask for recorded statements soon after the crash. This is not for your benefit; they want to find small mistakes or unclear statements in what you say and use them later to weaken your case. You have the right to refuse this until you consult an attorney.
Do Not Accept the First Settlement Offer
Early settlement offers are always lower than what you actually deserve. Insurance companies take advantage of your stress, growing medical bills, and need for quick relief. They hope you’ll accept the first offer before realizing the full value of your medical costs, lost income, and long-term effects on your health and daily life, which is why it’s best not to accept any legal settlements without proper legal guidance.
Do Not Provide Inaccurate or Incomplete Information
Honesty is essential when dealing with insurance companies. Providing incomplete details, exaggerating injuries, or hiding information can cause delays or even the denial of your claim. Always stick to facts and let your lawyer guide you on what needs to be shared.
Key Takeaways
- Never leave the accident scene, as it harms your credibility and weakens your claim.
- Avoid apologizing because it can be misunderstood as accepting fault.
- Always call the police and obtain an official report to strengthen your claim with documented facts.
- Collect photos and videos at the scene to protect yourself if the trucking company challenges your version.
- Seek medical care immediately to create a clear record linking your injuries to the accident.
