The evidence you gather after a truck accident includes proof that establishes why the crash happened and who caused it. It should also include documentation that shows how much you’ve incurred in medical bills and lost income.
You must back up your claim with comprehensive evidence collection when you pursue a negligent truck driver or other at-fault party after a crash. A Dallas truck accident lawyer can clarify what evidence you need for your case. They will compile your evidence and submit it to the at-fault party and their insurance company. Then, they’ll use the evidence to steer your case toward resolution via a settlement versus a trial.
Truck Accident Evidence Collection Starts Right at the Accident Scene
The immediate aftermath of a truck accident can be traumatic and disturbing. That can make it hard to know what you should do at the scene of a truck accident. Moreover, if your injuries are severe enough, you may not have been able to gather evidence at that time. Thus, it’s vital to contact a local law firm as soon as possible.
If your legal team can inspect the accident scene, they can gather crucial details and information supporting your right to compensation. For example, they can interview witnesses while their recollections are vivid and help you comply with the statute of limitations.
Your Truck Accident Report Is a Valuable Piece of Evidence
According to Insurance Information Institute (III) guidelines, collecting as much information at the scene as possible can help your claim. Then, you will want to request a copy of the police accident report, which will contain critical information, including the following:
- Contact information for the trucker, their employer, and their insurer
- Points of impact and paint transfers on each involved vehicle
- Road and weather conditions and relevant road and tire markings
- Vehicle damage and whether a tow truck removed your car
Your lawyer will obtain your police report for you. They will also gather additional evidence while you concentrate on your recovery or helping a loved one recover.
Photos and Videos Can Capture Important Details About Your Truck Accident
Your police report might include police-generated photos and videos that support your version of events. If it does, your lawyer will review them and include them in your case file.
Your lawyer will also explain additional video footage they could use as evidence in an insurance claim or lawsuit. Whenever possible, they will obtain footage from:
- Traffic cameras
- Surveillance cameras
- Dash cameras
- Police bodycams
Most people carry smartphones today. If bystanders or passersby took photos or videos of the collision, your lawyer could help you access it. Additionally, they will canvass nearby establishments (e.g., businesses or bus stops) for video footage.
Gather Statements From Lay and Expert Witnesses for Your Evidence File
Expert witnesses in a truck accident case can reconstruct your accident and clarify the sequence of events. Your attorney might consult:
- Medical experts
- Forensic experts
- Financial planners
- Trucking industry experts
- Mental health professionals
Your personal injury lawyer will identify and consult relevant experts. Most will also cover the upfront costs of working with the experts your case requires.
Medical Records and Bills Document Your Truck Accident Injuries and Costs
You not only must collect evidence proving the cause of your accident, but you also need to prove its costs. A critical piece of evidence is your medical records, which typically provide detailed insight into the extent of your injuries and their current and future costs.
Your legal team will compile medical records and bills from every healthcare professional and facility where you receive treatment. They will also gather receipts for required medications, assistive medical devices, and other treatment costs.
You can also sue for pain and suffering resulting from the accident, injuries, and recovery process. Your medical, rehab, and therapy records help your lawyer determine the value of these damages.
First Responder Observations Can Support Your Truck Accident Case
The first responders who usually arrive at the scene of a truck accident are police officers and paramedics. Each can provide essential evidence and information to your legal team. For example, the police report will capture key information in an objective format.
Medical first responder reports could also prove valuable. They will note any readily apparent injuries at the scene and the treatment you received until you reached the hospital. In conjunction with your medical records, they tell an important part of your story and the accident’s aftermath.
A Truck Accident Attorney Can Gather Hard-to-Access Evidence for You
Some evidence that will support your truck accident case might be easier for you to obtain with legal support. For example, if a lawyer represents you, they can request:
- Hours-of-service logbooks
- Cargo loading reports
- Maintenance and repair records
- GPS and black box data
- Training, licensing, and driving records
If drugs or alcohol played a role in the collision, your lawyer will request the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test results.
Finally, did your family member die in a fatal truck accident? If so, your attorney will request your loved one’s medical records and death certificate, since these items could trigger you emotionally.
Discovery and Depositions Can Reveal Additional Truck Accident Evidence
The discovery process allows each side of a legal action to examine the other party’s evidence. Thus, your legal team could gain valuable insight into your case.
In addition, a deposition allows your lawyer to hear from the defendant and any witnesses for their side. Finally, should the defendant’s representatives opt to depose you, your lawyer will prepare you for the process.
Consult Our Truck Accident Team at No Cost or Obligation
Loncar Lyon Jenkins will investigate and build the strongest case for you if you or a loved one suffered injuries in a recent truck accident. We will explain what evidence you should gather after a truck accident and the steps we will take to compile it for you.
Leave the hard work to us so you can focus on getting better. Get started today by contacting our consultation team at Loncar Lyon Jenkins.
