What kind of evidence is needed to establish liability in a truck accident case?

Establishing liability in a commercial truck accident case requires gathering various types of evidence to prove negligence or fault on the part of the truck driver, trucking company or third party.

What Evidence Can Strengthen a Truck Accident Claim?

Here are the key pieces of evidence that are often crucial in building a strong case:

Police reports. Obtain a copy of the police report filed at the scene of the accident. Police reports typically contain valuable information, including the officer's observations, statements from witnesses, and a preliminary assessment of fault.

Eyewitness testimonies. Gather statements from any witnesses who saw the accident happen. Eyewitness testimonies can provide valuable insights into how the accident occurred and who may be at fault.

Commercial truck driver's driving logs. Commercial truck drivers are required by law to keep detailed records of their driving hours and rest breaks. These logs, known as "hours of service" logs, can be critical in determining whether the driver violated federal trucking regulations regarding hours of service, which could lead to driver fatigue.

Truck maintenance records. Request the trucking company's maintenance records, which should include information about regular inspections and repairs. Poorly maintained trucks can lead to equipment failures, which may contribute to accidents.

Black box data. Most commercial trucks are equipped with event data recorders, also known as "black boxes." These devices record crucial data about the truck's speed, braking, acceleration, and other parameters leading up to and during the accident.

Trucking company policies. Review the trucking company's policies and procedures, including hiring practices, training protocols, and safety guidelines. A company's negligence in enforcing safety standards can be a contributing factor in accidents.

Surveillance footage. If the accident occurred in an area with surveillance cameras, obtain footage that may have captured the collision or the actions of the truck driver leading up to the accident.

Expert witnesses. In complex truck accident cases, expert witnesses may be called upon to provide professional opinions. Accident reconstruction experts, trucking industry experts, and medical professionals can provide valuable insights into the cause of the accident and the extent of injuries.

Phone records. If distracted driving is suspected, obtain the truck driver's cell phone records to determine whether they were using their phone at the time of the accident.

Accident scene evidence. Examine the accident scene for physical evidence such as skid marks, road debris, and damage to vehicles, which can help reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the collision.

Can a Big Rig Lawyer Help Me Recover Compensation?

Gathering and preserving evidence promptly is crucial, as valuable information may be lost over time. If you or someone you know has been involved in a commercial truck accident, you must speak with a qualified truck accident lawyer experienced in handling semi-truck  accident cases. An attorney can help navigate the complexities of gathering evidence and build a strong case to establish liability and seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Contact Us Today

If you've been injured in a commercial truck accident, don't settle for less than you deserve. Schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer at MVP Accident Attorneys to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Our dedicated team will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve for all accident-related damages. Contact us today to learn more.