Accidents involving tow trucks can be more complex than typical car crashes. These large, commercial vehicles are often covered by different insurance policies and may be operated by drivers working for private companies or on behalf of municipalities. If you’ve been in a wreck with a tow truck in Tulsa, it’s important to know what steps to take right away to protect your health and your legal rights.
At Koller Baker & Associates, we help injured individuals navigate serious personal injury cases, including those involving commercial and municipal vehicles. Our team has deep roots in Oklahoma, and we’re proud to stand up for people harmed by someone else’s negligence.
1. Get to Safety and Call 911
Your first priority is always safety. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location and check for injuries. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to call 911 and wait for police and emergency services to arrive. Tow trucks are heavy vehicles, and even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries or hidden damage.
Make sure a police report is filed and request a copy for your records. This document can be vital if you need to file a claim or pursue legal action later on.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Injuries from tow truck accidents can range from whiplash and broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Some symptoms may not appear immediately, so it’s important to get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that can support your personal injury claim.
3. Gather Information at the Scene
If you’re able, collect as much information as possible, including:
- The tow truck driver’s name and contact information
- The name of the towing company and their insurance details
- License plate numbers and truck identification numbers
- Photos of all vehicles involved, the crash scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries
- Contact information from witnesses
This information will be helpful to your attorney and essential when dealing with insurance companies.
4. Be Cautious When Speaking with Insurers
The towing company’s insurance provider may reach out quickly. Their goal is to minimize the amount they have to pay. Do not agree to give a recorded statement or accept any early settlement offers before speaking with an attorney. These offers often fall short of the full compensation you’re entitled to receive.
An experienced attorney will deal with insurers on your behalf and make sure your interests come first.
5. Understand Who May Be Liable
Tow truck accidents can involve several potential parties:
- The tow truck driver
- The company that owns or operates the truck
- A municipality or government agency, if the vehicle was city-operated
- Third-party maintenance providers, if faulty repairs played a role
Determining liability in these cases often requires a thorough investigation, which is why working with a law firm familiar with complex vehicle claims is critical.
6. Know What Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If the tow truck driver or company was at fault, you may be eligible to recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Long-term rehabilitation or disability support
If a loved one was killed in a collision with a tow truck, you may also have the right to file a wrongful death claim.
7. Why Local Representation in Tulsa Matters
Accidents with commercial vehicles require a deeper understanding of state and federal trucking laws, insurance coverage, and local legal procedures. At Koller Baker & Associates, we know the Tulsa area and have experience handling complex vehicle accident cases right here in Oklahoma. We work closely with medical providers, accident reconstruction experts, and insurance adjusters to build strong cases for our clients.
Contact Koller Baker & Associates Today
If you’ve been hurt in a wreck involving a tow truck in Tulsa, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Koller Baker & Associates today for a confidential consultation. We’ll answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you take the next step toward justice and recovery.
