Because a truck accident can have multiple at-fault parties, proving negligence is how a lawyer assigns financial liability after the collision. The evidence your lawyer needs to prove trucking accident negligence can vary from accident to accident. Some evidence, though, is part of most truck accident claims or lawsuits.
Commonly collected evidence can include a copy of your police report and the report of an accident scene reconstructionist. It can also include medical records, statements from any available witnesses, and reports from expert witnesses. The law firm that represents you will handle evidence collection for you. Their involvement can allow you to focus on your recovery while they build your case and fight for compensation.
The Importance of Evidence in Your Truck Accident Case
The majority of truck accident claims are resolved without court intervention. This typically happens because the weight of the evidence indicates negligence. In a truck accident case, negligence can be assigned to:
- The truck driver
- Their employer
- Truck manufacturer
- Parts manufacturer
- Cargo loader
The negligent party is defined by their duty, breach, causation, and damages. Who the at-fault party is could influence the kind of evidence that supports your right to recover damages. A local truck accident lawyer can explain the evidence they collect and its role in pursuing appropriate compensation for you.
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Police Report
Your attorney will obtain an official copy of your police report immediately. It will contain necessary details and information about the accident, including:
- Contact details for the driver, their employer, and any witnesses
- Identifying information for the truck and your vehicle
- Contact information and statements from accident witnesses
- Notes and diagrams from the original investigating officer(s)
The police report might also note any readily available injuries. It will cite points of impact, paint transfer, and all damage to each vehicle. Finally, it will state the driver’s condition and the presence of any distractions.
Witness Statements
Statements from passersby or occupants of adjacent vehicles can help your case. These statements can carry a substantial amount of weight because they are objective.
Witness statements also provide details of the accident from a variety of perspectives. They can also have information from before, during, and after the crash that may prove valuable.
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Expert Witness Statements
Truck accidents have been studied for decades. The experts who study accidents today can help your legal team identify common causes and understand your accident’s specific causes.
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Medical Records
Your truck accident lawyer will request your medical records and may continue to request them throughout your recovery. They will contain details about the cause of your injuries. They may also include details about points of impact on your person that relate to points of impact on your vehicle.
Your medical records will also help substantiate the financial portion of your case. They will prove the immediate and ongoing costs of your prescribed treatment plan. Your written prognosis will also be part of your medical records. It will prove the value of your future medical care and substantiate the income your injuries force you to miss.
Vehicle Inspections
Your legal team and any expert witnesses and accident reconstruction experts they consult can help decipher vehicle inspections. For example, if the truck involved in your accident was faulty, any manufacturing or repair defects can be uncovered in this process.
Physical and other evidence of flawed or faulty vehicles or parts can be difficult to find on your own. Your legal team will explain how they obtain this evidence and its importance in your case.
Black Box Data
Modern trucks are often equipped with a black box recording device. They typically record fault, historical, calibration, and event data. It can contain valuable information your attorney can use to assign negligence and financial liability. The steps involved in obtaining this data are complicated. If the truck involved in your accident was equipped with this technology, your legal team would request its data on your behalf.
Photos and Video Footage
Photos and videos can tell the story of your accident in detail. If your injuries are severe enough, they can even capture details and moments you might have overlooked or forgotten.
Your lawyer can obtain photos and videos from:
- Dashcam footage
- Residential surveillance footage
- Commercial surveillance footage
- Security camera footage
Your lawyer’s investigation can include canvassing the truck accident scene and surrounding area for available photos and videos.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney Today for Help with Your Case
When our law firm handles your truck accident claim, we collect the evidence needed to prove negligence. We also fight hard for the compensation you deserve and provide all-around client support. If you or someone you love was injured in a collision with a large truck, we could help. Contact the Law Offices of Adam M. Smallow for a free review of your case today.
Call or text (410)777-8960 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form