Report a claim
Tell us what happened. We report it to your insurance company and follow up until it's settled.
If anyone is hurt, call 911 first.
At the scene
- 1
Make the scene safe
Stop, turn on your hazards, and set out your warning triangles. Stay clear of traffic.
- 2
Call 911 if anyone is hurt
Also call if the road is blocked or there is a spill. Ask the officer for the police report number.
- 3
Photograph everything
Every vehicle and its damage, license plates, USDOT numbers, your load, the road, and any skid marks.
- 4
Swap details, stick to facts
Get names, phone numbers, insurance, and plates from everyone involved, plus witness contacts. Don't admit fault or agree to pay anyone at the scene.
- 5
Tell your dispatcher
If you are leased to a motor carrier, report it to them right away as well.
- 6
Check the post-accident test rule
A DOT drug and alcohol test is required after a crash with a fatality, or when you get a citation and someone is treated away from the scene or a vehicle is towed (49 CFR 382.303).
What happens next
- 1
You tell us
Call the office, email claims@tridentinsurancecorp.com, or use the form below. The sooner the better: same day if you can.
- 2
We report it to your insurance company
We open the claim with your insurer and send you the claim number and your adjuster's contact.
- 3
The adjuster reviews it
They may ask for photos, the police report, estimates, or a statement, and may inspect the truck. Send it to us and we'll pass it on.
- 4
Your insurer settles it
The insurance company decides and pays under your policy. We follow up and answer your questions until the claim is closed.
Report it online
Share what you know now. Helpful to have:
- Your policy number, or the insured name and USDOT number
- Date, time, and exact location (highway, mile marker, city)
- Police report number, if police came
- Photos and video from the scene
- Other drivers' names, insurance, plates, and USDOT numbers
- Driver's name and CDL number
Claim questions
Who pays my claim?
The insurance company that issued your policy. As your agency, we report the claim, pass your documents along, and chase the adjuster for updates.
How long does a claim take?
It depends on the insurer and the claim. A straightforward physical damage claim can wrap up in weeks; claims involving injuries or disputed fault can take months. We'll keep you posted at each step.
Can I call my insurance company directly?
Yes. The claim line is on your policy or insurance ID card. If you call them first, tell us too so we can follow up on your behalf.
I'm leased to a carrier. Who do I report to?
Report it to your motor carrier right away; their policy usually covers you under dispatch. If you were off dispatch, or your own truck is damaged, tell us as well: your bobtail, non-trucking liability, or physical damage policy may apply.
Should I get my truck repaired right away?
Get it safe and towed if needed, but hold off on major repairs until the adjuster has seen the damage or approved an estimate. Keep every receipt.
Will a claim raise my premium?
It can. At-fault accidents and frequent claims usually affect your renewal price. We'll go over your options when your policy comes up for renewal.