Car Accident Involving A Commercial Vehicle
Car accidents are never a pleasant experience, but when they involve commercial vehicles, the situation can become even more complicated. Commercial vehicles are typically larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, and they often have different regulations and insurance requirements. If you get into a car accident with a commercial vehicle in Colorado, here’s what you need to know.
First and foremost, if you’re involved in a car accident with a commercial vehicle, your health and safety should be your top priority. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, and make sure that everyone involved in the accident is safe and out of harm’s way. Once everyone is safe, you can begin to assess the damage and exchange insurance information with the other driver.
Under Colorado law, all drivers involved in a car accident must stop at the scene and exchange insurance information. If there are injuries or damage to property, you must also report the accident to the Colorado State Patrol or the local law enforcement agency. Failure to stop at the scene of an accident can result in criminal charges.
If the commercial vehicle involved in the accident is owned by a company or business, there may be additional steps you need to take. In Colorado, commercial vehicles are required to have insurance coverage with higher minimum liability limits than passenger vehicles. This is because commercial vehicles can cause more damage and have the potential to cause more injuries in an accident.
If the commercial vehicle driver was at fault for the accident, you may need to file a claim with their insurance company. This will enable you to recover damages for your injuries and property damage. However, if the commercial vehicle is owned by a large company, the claims process may be more complicated. You may need to hire an attorney to help you navigate the process.
In addition to filing a claim with the commercial vehicle driver’s insurance company, you may also be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. If you have collision coverage or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, these policies may help cover the cost of repairs and medical bills. This is even if the other driver was at fault for the accident.
It is important to remember that car accidents with commercial vehicles can be complex. It’s critical to seek the advice of an experienced attorney if you’re unsure about how to proceed. An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you’re involved in a car accident with a commercial vehicle in Colorado, the most significant thing is to prioritize your health and safety. Once everyone is safe, exchange insurance information with the other driver, report the accident if necessary, and consider hiring an attorney to help you navigate the claims process. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and ensure that you receive the compensation you and your loved ones deserve.