What to Do After a Truck Accident in Utah: A Legal Guide

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, emotional distress, and overwhelming financial consequences. Because of the size and weight of commercial vehicles, even low-speed collisions can leave victims with long-lasting harm. If you've been involved in a truck accident in Utah, knowing what steps to take can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal options.

At Harward & Hawes, we help injured individuals navigate the complexities of these cases with clarity and care. Below is a legal guide to help you understand what to do immediately after a truck accident and how to protect your rights.

1. Call 911 and Get Medical Help

The first priority after any truck accident is safety. Call 911 right away, even if you feel uninjured. The adrenaline from a collision can mask serious trauma, and having a police report will serve as an important piece of documentation for your case.

Paramedics will assess your condition on the scene. If needed, accept emergency transportation to the hospital. Follow up with your primary care doctor for further evaluation, as some injuries (like concussions or internal damage) may not show symptoms right away.

2. Document the Scene (If You're Able)

If your condition allows, gather as much information from the scene as possible. This documentation may prove crucial later when determining liability and negotiating compensation.

Collect:

• Photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and skid marks
• Names and contact details of the truck driver and any witnesses
• Insurance and trucking company information
• Police officer names and report number

Make note of any signs of driver fatigue, unsafe behavior, or cargo spillage. These details can be important in truck accident investigations.

3. Avoid Admitting Fault

It’s natural to want to apologize after an accident, but avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as accepting blame. Liability in truck accidents is often shared among multiple parties—such as the driver, the trucking company, or even the vehicle manufacturer.

Stick to the facts when speaking with police or other drivers. Let the investigation determine who is responsible.

4. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

You should notify your insurance provider as soon as reasonably possible. Provide only the basic facts and avoid speculating about fault or injury severity. Avoid signing anything or agreeing to a settlement without consulting legal counsel.

5. Do Not Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster

Insurance companies representing trucking carriers often move quickly to contact accident victims. Their goal is to minimize the company’s financial liability—sometimes by getting you to settle before the full extent of your injuries is known.

You are under no obligation to speak with them. Instead, refer all communication to your attorney.

6. Understand the Complexity of Truck Accident Claims

Truck accidents differ from standard car crashes in several key ways:

• Multiple parties may be liable, including the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers.
• Federal and state regulations (like hours-of-service rules and maintenance logs) can play a role in proving fault.
• Severe injuries often mean long-term medical needs, lost income, and higher compensation potential.

Because of this complexity, it’s important to have legal support from a team familiar with Utah personal injury law and trucking regulations.

7. Keep Records of All Expenses and Communication

Start a file with all documents related to the accident and your recovery, including:

• Medical bills and treatment records
• Lost wage documentation
• Receipts for travel to medical appointments
• Repair estimates
• Any correspondence with insurers

These records will be used to support your claim and calculate fair compensation.

8. Schedule a Legal Consultation

Truck accidents can leave lasting consequences—physically, emotionally, and financially. An experienced legal team can help you pursue full and fair compensation for your injuries, pain, lost wages, and more.

At Harward & Hawes, we offer support tailored to your needs and focused on achieving results. We investigate the cause of the crash, preserve evidence, and advocate on your behalf every step of the way.

Contact Harward & Hawes Today

If you've been involved in a truck accident in Utah, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. The sooner you act, the better your chances of protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Call 801-506-3800 or schedule a consultation today
Learn more about how we support truck accident victims throughout Draper and beyond at www.harwardlaw.com