3 types of evidence to examine after a truck crash
Truck accidents are often catastrophic events. Vehicles may be demolished, roadways may be closed and victims may be fighting for their lives.
Despite the chaos that typically follows these types of crashes, there are ways to unravel the situation to figure out what happened and who is to blame. This involves finding and securing evidence. Below, we look at three types of evidence that can prove to be especially valuable when investigating a serious truck accident.
The drivers
Drivers are typically the ones at fault in these types of accident, so it is necessary to figure out what they may have been doing immediately before and during the crash. As such, it is important to gather from all parties, especially truckers:
- Cell phone records
- Blood alcohol and drug tests
- Medical records
- Trucker log books
- License status and training verification
The accident
Victims often do not know what happened in a crash because it happens so fast. However, other parties and sources can shed some light on the accident to reveal what transpired. These sources might include:
- Eyewitnesses
- Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Truck black boxes
- Surveillance video from other parties in the vicinity
Your injuries
Evidence of your injuries can be critical in assessing the damage to determine compensation. This information might also reveal that some of your injuries stem from failed or defective products. This is why it is important to document:
- A comprehensive list of your doctor visits
- Detailed records of your injuries
- Reports on how many days of work you had to miss
- The emotional distress you experience as a result of the accident
In the midst of all the trauma and devastation that follows a serious truck accident, it is unrealistic to expect victims to be able to think clearly and collect evidence about the crash. This is why victims and their families often consult an experienced personal injury attorney soon after these crashes. An attorney can gather evidence and build a case for compensation so that you can focus on the challenges of recovery.