Rescue Your Revenue

Got Hit at a Truck Stop? Protect Your Claim – Expediter Edition

Jorge had just grabbed a quick coffee from the truck stop before heading out on his next urgent run. As an expediter, every minute counts; delays can mean lost opportunities. But as he walked back to his van, he heard the dreaded crunch. A reefer trailer cut too tight and scraped past his front fender. The mirror dangled, the headlight was shattered, and deep scratches ran along the paint. In a business where time off the road means a missed load,  
Jorge knew he couldn’t afford the setback. Remembering advice from a fellow driver, he called the police, secured his dashcam footage, and began documenting his claim. It might seem small to some, but for Jorge, it was essential; every dollar and every mile mattered.

Truck stops are high-traffic, high-risk spots for expediters. Even a “minor” incident can throw off your delivery schedule and cost you real money. With tight margins and freight often paying per mile or per load, it’s critical to protect your claim from the start.

Step 1: Safety First

If you’ve been hit, check for injuries, call the police, and move to a safe spot if possible. Use hazard lights and inspect your van for leaks or unsafe damage before driving away. Some truck stops are private property, so police action may be limited, but in any accident, it is a good idea to call the proper authorities.

Step 2: Document Immediately

Secure dashcam footage or ask nearby drivers for theirs. Take multiple photos and videos, close-ups of the damage, wide shots of the truck stop, and any relevant details like skid marks or signage.

Step 3: Get Witness Statements

If another driver saw it, get their contact info right away. A quick statement can make a big difference if the fault is disputed.

Step 4: Contact Police & Truck Stop Security

Even for small damage, a police report adds weight to your claim. Ask the truck stop to preserve security footage before it’s deleted and ensure you have a copy of any relevant footage.

Step 5: Exchange Information

Get the other driver’s name, license, carrier, DOT number, insurance details, and confirm phone numbers on the spot.

Step 6: Report Promptly

Call the at-fault party’s insurance from the scene. If there’s no valid coverage, inform the police immediately.

Why Small Claims Matter for Expediters

Your vehicles is your business. Unrepaired damage can hurt resale value, trigger DOT issues, or even take you off the road, losing you more loads. Quick repairs and full recovery keep you running and earning.

Step 7: Know When to Call an Attorney

Expediters can’t afford long disputes or low settlements. A trucking attorney can handle the process, prove your losses, and fight for the payout you deserve. 
 
Bottom line: If you’re an expediter and get hit at a truck stop, don’t shrug it off. Document fast, file the claim, and protect your income, every load and every dollar counts.

Need help filing your claim?
 
At Eckert & Associates, P.A., we help expediters and truckers recover downtime and damage costs. Visit downtimeclaims.com or call us today. 

The information in this article is general in nature and is not intended as legal advice.