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7 Steps to Take After a Tractor-Trailer Accident in Virginia Beach

Being involved in a tractor-trailer crash can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life. In the moments after impact, confusion, fear, and shock often make it hard to think clearly. Knowing what to do after a tractor-trailer accident in Virginia Beach can make all the difference for your health, your safety, and your ability to recover compensation later.

If you’re wondering what to do after a tractor-trailer accident in Virginia Beach, the key is to stay calm and act strategically. With over 50 years of experience, attorney Carlton F. Bennett has guided victims through these difficult moments and helped them rebuild their lives after catastrophic truck accidents. Follow these seven important steps to protect yourself and your future.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety and the safety of others come first. If anyone is injured, please call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, you may have internal or delayed injuries. Emergency medical responders can evaluate you at the scene, and their report becomes valuable evidence later.

Avoid moving seriously injured individuals unless they’re in immediate danger. When speaking with dispatchers, provide clear details about the accident location, the number of vehicles involved, and whether hazardous materials are present.

Step 2: Move to a Safe Location

If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent additional collisions. Turn on hazard lights and place cones or flares if you have them. Stay near the scene until police arrive, but away from moving traffic.

Large trucks often spill cargo or fuel during a crash, creating extra hazards. Keep your distance and wait for authorities to declare the area safe before inspecting the damage.

Step 3: Contact Law Enforcement

Always report a tractor-trailer crash to law enforcement, no matter how minor it seems. The police report will contain critical information such as road conditions, witness statements, and the officer’s initial observations.

Provide honest answers but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened. Let investigators collect the facts. Their findings will play an essential role if you pursue an injury claim later.

Step 4: Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you can safely do so, document the accident before vehicles are moved. Use your phone to take photos or videos of:

• Vehicle positions, skid marks, and debris;
• Visible injuries;
• Road signs, lighting, and weather conditions; and
• The truck’s license plate and company name.

Ask witnesses for their names and contact information. Collecting this evidence immediately can strengthen your case long after the scene has been cleared.

Step 5: Seek Medical Care Right Away

Even if you walk away from a tractor-trailer accident feeling fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussion, or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms for hours or days.

Prompt evaluation helps connect your injuries directly to the crash, making it harder for insurance companies to dispute your claim. Follow all treatment recommendations and keep copies of every bill, test, and prescription.

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

Most insurance policies require prompt reporting of accidents. Contact your insurer as soon as possible after the crash, but be cautious about providing recorded statements. Provide the facts: time, date, location, and vehicles involved.

If the truck driver’s insurer calls you, refer them to your attorney. Anything you say could be used to devalue or deny your claim. Having an experienced Virginia Beach truck accident lawyer handle communications helps protect your rights from the start.

Step 7: Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial truck crashes often involve multiple parties, including drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, and maintenance contractors. Determining who is responsible can be a complex process. That’s why contacting a lawyer with decades of experience is one of the most important steps to take after a tractor-trailer accident.

The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett has handled serious truck accident cases throughout Virginia. We investigate every angle, gather critical evidence such as driver logs and black-box data, and fight to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you move forward, here are answers to some of the most common questions people ask after a tractor-trailer crash in Virginia Beach.

Who Is Liable for a Tractor-Trailer Accident in Virginia Beach?

Liability can extend beyond the truck driver. The trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, or even parts manufacturers may share responsibility. Your lawyer will examine logbooks, safety records, and electronic data to determine who is liable for a tractor-trailer accident and build a strong case for compensation.

Should I Call the Police After a Tractor-Trailer Accident in Virginia Beach?

Yes. Always call the police, even for seemingly minor collisions. A formal report documents the scene and is often required by insurance companies. It also helps establish an objective record if liability becomes disputed later.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Virginia?

Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can bar you from seeking compensation altogether. Contact an attorney promptly to preserve evidence and stay compliant with all filing deadlines.

What Evidence Should I Collect After a Tractor-Trailer Accident?

Gather photos, witness information, and contact details for the truck driver and company. If you can, note the truck’s DOT number and any visible damage. Medical records, repair estimates, and pay stubs for lost wages will also support your claim. An attorney can help secure more technical evidence, like electronic logging device data and maintenance reports.

Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Tractor-Trailer Accident in Virginia Beach?

Yes. Truck accident cases involve state and federal regulations, multiple insurance carriers, and large corporate defendants. An experienced attorney can protect your interests, negotiate fair compensation, and take your case to trial if necessary.

Talk to a Trusted Local Accident Lawyer Today

Knowing what to do after a tractor-trailer accident in Virginia Beach can make a critical difference in your recovery. Every decision, from calling 911 to choosing the right lawyer, helps secure your health, your rights, and your future.

At The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, we bring over 50 years of experience to every case we handle. Our team focuses on serious, high-value injury claims, providing the personalized attention you deserve.

If you or a loved one were hurt in a truck accident, contact us today. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.