Handling Accidents

I was involved in an accident with an 18 wheeler, who I am unsure if he even was aware he struck me. The driver made a left turn from a center lane (which is not a turn lane) to enter an interstate entrance ramp. Unfortunately, I was in the left lane about to make the same turn legally when I noticed the semi making the turn, so I quickly stopped my vehicle, however while the semi completed his turn, the trailer ripped the front end off my vehicle, completely disabling it, and the driver kept driving. I had witnesses stay, providing all pertinent information, including the license plate number on the trailer and a hit and run report was taken by the local police department. My vehicle had to be towed from the scene.

I called the trucking company and they took a report from me, but two days later - I am not getting any response back from them... other than they stated the driver told them he was never at the location where the accident occurred.

I am not injured, thank goodness, and only want my car fixed and returned. Is there any information I can obtain from you guys to help. I do not want to get the driver in trouble, but all of us know striking a vehicle and leaving is not the proper way to handle things. IF by chance he had no knowledge of striking me but it is obvious this accident did occur, what is the proper protocol?

Thank you guys in advance and stay safe out there.

 

Thank you so much for your quick reply. Of course if I file with the insurance company I get a "claim" knock on my record and fork over a $500 deductible I do not currently have in my bank account. I have been very lucky in my 45 years of life to never been in an accident or have to file a claim.

Do these type of accidents work out typically?

 

Good info... thank you Big Don.

No, I did not receive any tickets and according to the police report, the truck driver was listed as "inattentive" and "improper turn".

Thanks for the heads up.

Brickman - I too am unsure if he knew he hit me and I tend to give people the benefit of the doubt. However, apparently with him saying to his company that he was never in the area has me concerned.

I never judge anyones profession, as they are all case specific. I am glad you guys put in your long hours and provide things to us daily that we all take for granted.

Again - stay safe and thank you for your information!!