How to Maximize Uptime When Your Commercial Truck is Involved in an Accident

Although we do our best to prevent them, accidents do happen occasionally. When an accident involves your automobile, especially the one you rely on for your livelihood, it can aggravate an already difficult and frightening situation by creating an unexpected financial strain due to downtime.
Anytime you’re involved in a vehicle accident, the first things you need to do are ensure no one is seriously injured, make sure you are safe, and call necessary emergency services, including the police. In addition, you will need to exchange information with the other driver(s). Once these tasks are completed, it’s time to talk repairs - and get your truck back on the road as quickly as possible.
Hopefully, you’ve protected both your business and truck with good trucking insurance, which can help prevent losses in the event of an unfortunate accident. Learn what to do if your commercial truck is involved in an accident, and then follow these quick tips to save time and money by reducing your truck’s downtime
Tips for getting your truck back on the road faster after an accident
When it comes to accident repairs, the most common mistake made by commercial vehicle owners is that they think their responsibility ends once the truck is dropped off at the repair shop. However, the key to reducing downtime is being informed and staying involved in the repair process, from beginning to end.
Find a tow - Be sure to direct the tow truck driver to the nearest repair facility. Also, be familiar with the towing company. Your commercial insurance company, mechanic or industry contacts may be able to recommend a good heavy duty towing company.
Choose a repair shop - Of course, you want your truck delivered to the nearest repair facility, rather than having your truck directed to an impound lot. However, you want to make sure the repair shop is reputable. If you’re not sure where to turn, call a dealer network. They’ll be able to put you in contact with a reputable repair shop in your area.
Ask for an estimate - Request a quote that describes all of the necessary repairs, the associated cost and an estimated date of completion. When you receive the estimate, review the parts description. Be sure you understand what types of parts will be used (aftermarket, recycled or new), and if the repairs are only temporary. Then, ask yourself if the associated expenses are reasonable. (Knowledge of the average prices of common replacement parts will help, so be sure to stay up-to-date.) Next, review the estimated timeline for completion and determine if it is acceptable. And finally, ask the repair shop to review any warranty and service guarantees with you. Ask if the mechanic or foreman is willing to test drive your truck with you once the repairs are completed, too. If everything is in order and you are satisfied with your estimate, give the repair shop permission to get started.
Start repairs immediately - Ask the repair shop to begin work immediately once you give them the green light, and insist they adhere to the timeline provided in your estimate. Don’t wait for your commercial auto insurance carrier to start the process for you.
Communicate with your commercial insurance company - When it comes to automobile accidents, it pays to be prepared. Before you head out on the road, make sure you fully understand the ins and out of your commercial auto insurance policy. Common questions you may want answered include
What is your deductible, and how much are you responsible for in the event of an accident?
What coverage does your truck insurance provide? For example, will it cover the expenses associated with storage fees or a second tow, if necessary?
Does your coverage include property damage?
Always report your loss to your commercial insurance provider, regardless of whether the accident was your fault or someone else’s. In most cases, you will need to provide documentation in order to be reimbursed for claims, so always save your receipts.
Also, be sure to choose a commercial insurance company with a strong track record. Progressive Commercial is one of the fastest growing commercial auto insurance groups in the U.S. Progressive’s business insurance for truck drivers offers roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, and rental reimbursement with downtime, as well as a large network of expert technicians. For more information, visit www.ProgressiveCommercial.com.