Getting injured in a truck accident is overwhelming enough, but what if the driver fled the scene or you simply didn’t get their information? Whether it was a chaotic crash on the New Jersey Turnpike or a sudden sideswipe on Route 78, not having the truck driver’s name, license plate, or company details can make recovery feel impossible. Fortunately, you still have legal options.
If you were injured by a truck but didn’t get the driver’s info, there are still ways to build a strong claim. From gathering alternate evidence to exploring uninsured motorist coverage and consulting a personal injury lawyer, here’s what you need to know.
Stay at the Scene and Call 911
First things first: Don’t leave the accident site. Even if the truck driver has already left, your best chance at protecting your rights starts with staying put and contacting the authorities.
- Call 911 and report the incident as soon as possible.
- Request both medical assistance and police response.
If your injuries are not life-threatening, begin documenting the scene while waiting for help.
A police report will serve as official documentation that the truck accident occurred, which is crucial for any future injury claim, especially when you don’t have the truck driver’s details.
Gather Evidence at the Scene (Even Without the Driver)
Even if the truck fled or you couldn’t speak to the driver, there may be critical evidence you can still collect, including photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, road signs and nearby businesses. Look for surveillance cameras on traffic lights, gas stations, or stores.
Also, be sure to ask for witness statements. Did anyone nearby see the truck or get a license plate number?
In many cases, investigators can use this type of evidence to help identify the truck or trucking company involved.
Similar Post: The Importance of Black Box Data in New Jersey Truck Accident Investigations
File an Official Police Report
If police responded to the scene, they should file an accident report. However, if you didn’t speak with an officer at the time, it’s still important to file a report as soon as possible.
Be sure to include:
- A description of the truck (color, size, company logo, etc.)
- The time and location of the crash
- How the accident happened (for example, did the truck driver run a red light?)
- Any injuries you suffered
Even without the truck driver’s identity, a timely police report will help support your case when filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
Get Prompt Medical Treatment
Truck crash injuries can be severe and sometimes symptoms don’t show up right away. Whether you’re experiencing whiplash, back pain, head trauma, or bruising, seeing a doctor immediately serves two purposes:
- It ensures you receive proper treatment before symptoms worsen.
- It creates a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident.
Failing to get medical care soon after the crash could give the insurance company a reason to deny your claim.
Contact a New Jersey Truck Accident Attorney
Injured by a truck but didn’t get the driver’s info? You may still be eligible for compensation. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you pursue it.
Here’s what a truck accident lawyer can do:
- Investigate the crash using photos, videos, witness statements, and nearby surveillance footage
- Work with accident reconstruction experts to piece together what happened
- Contact local businesses to access camera footage before it’s deleted
- Request cell tower or GPS data that may identify the truck or driver
- Navigate your insurance coverage, including uninsured or underinsured motorist claims
Truck accidents can involve multiple parties, including drivers, trucking companies, freight brokers, and more. A seasoned personal injury attorney will know where to look, even when you’re missing key information.
What If the Truck Was From Out of State?
It’s common for commercial trucks to travel across state lines. Even if the truck was registered out of state or part of an interstate freight company, you still have rights in New Jersey.
In fact, federal trucking regulations may apply in these cases, making the claims process more complex. However, with the help of a New Jersey truck accident lawyer, you can take the right legal steps even if the truck’s origin is unknown or outside state borders.
How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in New Jersey?
New Jersey’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck crashes, is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to take legal action within that time, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely.
However, exceptions do exist. For example, if you only discover the full extent of your injuries later on, your deadline might be extended. An attorney can help you determine the exact filing window for your situation.
Similar Post: Why Truck Accident Cases Are More Complicated Than Car Accident Claims
Common Truck Accident Injuries That May Not Appear Right Away
Some injuries from truck accidents can take hours or even days to become apparent. Even if you walked away from the crash, symptoms can develop gradually and worsen without treatment. These include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Herniated discs
- Internal bleeding
- Whiplash
- Emotional trauma or PTSD
Always follow up with a medical professional and document any changes in your physical or mental condition after the accident.
You Don’t Need the Driver’s Name to Seek Justice
Not having the truck driver’s info doesn’t mean your case is over. Whether the driver fled the scene or the moment was too chaotic to gather details, a skilled lawyer can help uncover who was responsible or help you recover through other legal channels.
You deserve a fair shot at recovery, even when the facts are complicated. Don’t give up just because you’re missing one piece of the puzzle.
Call Blume Forte Today if You Were Injured by a Truck But Didn’t Get the Driver’s Info
At Blume Forte Attorneys at Law, we’ve been helping New Jersey truck accident victims for decades. We know how to build strong claims even when the driver’s identity is unknown. If you were injured by a truck but didn’t get the driver’s info, we’ll fight to protect your rights and pursue every possible source of compensation.
Our team can investigate the crash, work with experts, deal with the insurance companies, and guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to wait another day to get help.
Call us now at 973-845-4421 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. With offices in Chatham, Jersey City, North Bergen, and Sea Girt, we’re ready to stand by your side.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
