Imagine you’re on your lunch break, driving the company truck to grab some grub, when suddenly – BAM! – you get hit by another car. What do you do now?
Here’s what you should know about what can happen when the company truck gets hit on your lunch hour, and whether you’re on the clock or not could make a difference.
Getting yourself (and others) medical attention
First things first, check for any injuries. If you or anyone involved in the accident is hurt, call 911 right away. Safety is the top priority here. If everyone is okay, then it’s time to exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information. Also, make sure to get contact information for any witnesses who saw what happened.
Gathering informaiton
If you’re not injured, take some pictures of the accident. This can help later when filling out paperwork or dealing with insurance. Take photos of any damage to the truck, as well as any damage to the other car. If there are any injuries, take pictures of those as well.
Does it matter if I was on the clock?
Now, here’s where things get a little tricky. Depending on the circumstances, whether you’re on the clock or not could affect what happens next. If you’re on the clock, the company’s insurance will usually cover any damage to the truck. But if you’re off the clock, it might not be so cut and dry.
If you’re off the clock, there’s a chance the company might not be responsible for any damage. It depends on the company’s policy. Some companies have insurance policies that cover their vehicles 24/7, regardless of whether or not the employee is on the clock. Other companies only have insurance coverage during work hours.
It’s also possible that your personal insurance could cover the damage. But again, it depends on your policy. Make sure to contact your insurance provider to find out what’s covered.
Talking to a supervisor
Regardless of whether you’re on the clock or not, you should always notify your supervisor as soon as possible after an accident. They’ll need to know what happened, and they can provide guidance on what to do next. If the truck needs to be repaired or replaced, they can work with the insurance company to get that taken care of.
Following up with your supervisor after the accident is also a good idea. Ensure everything is being taken care of and that any necessary paperwork is completed. Ask your supervisor for guidance if you’re unsure what to do next.
Getting into an accident with the company truck during your lunch break can be a stressful situation. Whether you’re on the clock or not could affect what happens next, but the most important thing is to make sure everyone is safe and that you follow the proper procedures.