Although your CDL training will help you stay safe while driving your truck, accidents can still happen anywhere and at any time. Changing road conditions and fatigue are two of the most common factors involved in accidents caused by both cars and trucks while on the road. Knowing how to handle the aftermath of an accident will help you stay calm and take the right steps to deal with the situation properly to ensure you and any others involved in the accident are safe.
Ensure Safety
After an accident, your first priority should be safety. Pull over in a safe spot immediately and check on the occupants of any other vehicles involved. Call 911 if medical assistance of any kind is needed. Contacting 911 will also alert the police, who will be dispatched to the scene to help.
Avoid Placing Blame
Regardless of the cause of the accident, avoid placing blame, even when speaking to the police. Be truthful about the situation and the factors that led to it, but do not feel compelled to admit fault or point fingers at other drivers. As soon as you’ve talked to the police and ensured everyone’s safety, you should also contact your employer—trucking companies have specialized employees who are experienced in dealing with accidents. These employees will help you through the post-accident process.
Document Everything
Before you leave the scene of the accident, document as much as you can. Use a camera or your smartphone to take pictures and write notes to yourself about the details of the accident while they are still fresh in your mind. Having a clear picture of the situation and the events leading up to it will help you recount the accident accurately after the fact.
HDS Truck Driving Institute will provide you with the specialized training you need to safely navigate a truck throughout your career. If you’d like to learn more about our CDL training programs in Tucson, you can find additional information on our website or speak with a representative by calling (877) 205-2141.
