What Should I Do If I’m Hit by a Schneider National Truck?

Accidents involving Schneider National trucks can be devastating, leading to severe injuries, costly medical bills, and significant vehicle damage. Because 18-wheelers are much larger and heavier than passenger cars, these accidents often result in life-altering consequences.

If you’ve been hit by a Schneider National truck, knowing what steps to take immediately after the crash can protect your legal rights and help you pursue fair compensation. Since Schneider National is one of the largest trucking companies in the U.S., they have insurance adjusters and legal teams working to minimize their payouts.

At Zinda Law Group, we help truck accident victims fight for their rights and seek maximum compensation. Below are the key steps to take after a Schneider National truck accident.

1. Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health and safety should be your top priority after any truck accident.

• Call 911 immediately to report the crash.
• Request medical assistance, even if you feel fine—some injuries, such as concussions and internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
• Obtain a copy of the police report, which will include:

Statements from the Schneider truck driver and witnesses

Any citations issued for traffic violations

An initial fault determination

A police report serves as critical evidence when filing a claim against Schneider National’s insurance provider.

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are physically able, document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible.

Take Photos and Videos of:

The accident scene, including skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signals

Damage to both vehicles (yours and the Schneider truck)

Visible injuries you or your passengers sustained

Exchange Information with:

The Schneider National truck driver (name, CDL license number, company ID)

Any witnesses who saw the accident (names and contact details)

Additionally, trucking companies like Schneider National must comply with FMCSA regulations, which include:

• Limits on driving hours to prevent driver fatigue
• Routine truck maintenance and inspections
• Proper cargo loading and securing requirements

If Schneider violated federal trucking laws, this could help strengthen your case.

3. Avoid Speaking with Schneider National’s Insurance Adjusters

Shortly after the accident, Schneider National’s insurance company may contact you. Be extremely cautious—their goal is to minimize their liability and pay you as little as possible.

DO NOT:

• Admit fault or apologize—even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you.
• Accept a quick settlement offer—these are often far less than what you deserve.
• Provide a recorded statement without consulting an attorney.

Instead, direct all communication to your lawyer. A skilled truck accident attorney will handle negotiations and ensure that you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

4. Get Medical Treatment and Follow Your Doctor’s Advice

Even if you don’t feel injured, seek medical treatment immediately. Truck accidents often cause delayed injuries, such as:

Whiplash and spinal cord injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions

Internal bleeding or organ damage

• Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, doctor visits, and prescriptions.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations, including therapy and rehabilitation.

Your medical records will be essential in proving the extent of your injuries and securing fair compensation.

5. Determine Liability and File an Insurance Claim

To recover compensation, you must determine who was at fault for the crash. Liability may rest on:

• The Schneider National truck driver (if they were speeding, distracted, or fatigued)
• Schneider National as a company (if they failed to maintain the truck or enforced unsafe driving policies)
• A third party (if a mechanical defect or improper cargo loading contributed to the crash)

Once liability is determined, your lawyer will file a claim with Schneider National’s insurance company and negotiate for a fair settlement.

6. What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of Schneider National truck accidents may be entitled to several types of damages, including:

Economic Damages

Medical expenses (hospital stays, rehabilitation, medications)

Lost wages (compensation for missed work and reduced earning potential)

Property damage (costs to repair or replace your vehicle)

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering (physical and emotional distress)

Loss of enjoyment of life (if injuries prevent you from daily activities)

Punitive Damages

Awarded in cases of gross negligence, such as:

• Driving under the influence
• Severe violations of federal trucking regulations
• Encouraging drivers to exceed legal driving hours

An experienced truck accident lawyer can ensure you seek the maximum compensation available.

7. Work with an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Schneider National has a team of legal experts and insurance adjusters working to minimize settlement payouts. If you go up against them alone, you may receive far less than what your case is truly worth.

Hiring a truck accident lawyer can help you:

•  Investigate the crash and gather strong evidence
•  Negotiate aggressively with Schneider National’s insurance team
•  Ensure compliance with FMCSA safety regulations
•  Take your case to trial if needed

At Zinda Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Take Action Today

If you’ve been injured in a collision with a Schneider National truck, taking immediate action is crucial. Our team of experienced truck accident attorneys can:

• Prove liability and build a strong case
• Handle all negotiations with Schneider National’s insurance company
• Fight for the full compensation you deserve

Call (800) 863-5312 today for a free consultation.

The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of maximizing your settlement. Don’t let Schneider National’s insurance team take advantage of you—get the legal help you need today.