Evidence For Your Truck Accident: What You Should Know
If you get into an accident with a commercial truck, evidence collection is extremely important to your case. Here are some examples of evidence you need to collect to help win your claim against the company who owns the truck.
Violation of Safety Rules
All drivers of commercial trucks must have a commercial driver's license to legally operate the vehicle. The driver is also employed by a motor carrier, who must abide by certain safety laws. The safety laws refer to the number of hours a driver can work at a time, the driver's qualifications, and the actual condition of the truck itself.
The Truck's Maintenance Records
You also need to secure the maintenance records of the truck to make sure the truck was up to date on all of its regular upkeep. This is crucial if your accident was caused in some way by the truck's condition. If the trucking company did not keep up with the truck's daily maintenance, parts of the truck could have failed and resulted in the accident. For example, if the brakes were not kept in good shape and the brakes contributed to your accident, the records will help support your case.
Camera Footage
Some trucking companies place cameras on trucks in the dashboard and on the back of the trailer. You need to secure this footage as part of your evidence package, especially if your vehicle can be seen. Even if you cannot see your vehicle in the footage, submitting the video as part of your evidence is necessary. Experts may be able to extract some information that you did not see yourself.
Scene Footage
If anyone near the accident scene took video of the accident, try to obtain a copy. Videos showing the accident in progress or the aftermath can be very helpful to you. It can help clarify any missing information or things you may have forgotten in the turmoil of the accident.
Witness Statements
Witnesses statements are important for your evidence package. If you were seriously injured in the accident, this is not something you will be able to get yourself right away. The police will take the name and contact information of witnesses to get in touch with at a later time.
You will have to work with a truck accident attorney to get access to the bulk of this information via subpoena. The 911 calls from the accident can also include pertinent witness information, which your attorney will need to get as well.
Share