Immediately following a truck accident in Oakland, your first priority is safety and health. You should check for injuries and call 911 to bring police and medical responders to the scene. If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle off the road and activate your hazard lights to prevent further collisions.

While at the scene, you must document as much evidence as possible. This includes taking photographs of all vehicles involved, damages, license plates, the trucking company logo, and general road conditions like skid marks or traffic signals. You should also exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and gather contact details from any witnesses.

In the hours and days following the incident, take these additional steps:

1. Seek a medical evaluation promptly, even if your injuries seem minor, to ensure all medical effects are officially recorded.
2. Notify your insurance company about the accident, but avoid admitting fault or discussing the details of the crash with the other party’s insurers.
3. Avoid signing any documents from insurance adjusters without legal advice.
4. Consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer to help navigate the complex claims process and ensure you meet California’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.