What Types of Evidence Are Used in a Truck Accident Case?
One or more factors may cause truck accidents. Commercial trucking companies may hire unqualified drivers. In other cases, drivers were impaired or exceeded their hours-of-service limits. Therefore, an attorney could have multiple sources of evidence to pursue while litigating a truck accident claim. During a truck accident case, an attorney may pursue various types of evidence that include:
Driver logs: Commercial truck drivers are required to keep logs that record pre-trip inspections and hours-of-service compliance. Logbooks could be combined with other evidence to show fault after an accident.
Driver records: Truck companies keep detailed records on their drivers. Records may show if a company hired and retained an unqualified driver to operate a commercial vehicle.
Witnesses: Truck accidents can have several witnesses. An attorney can speak with these witnesses to help establish the cause of the accident. Accident reconstruction specialists or other experts could also be used.
Drug tests: Failed drug tests may be an indicator that a driver was impaired after an accident or unqualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
“The black box”: Commercial trucks also have “black boxes.” The electronic control module (ECM) may record speed, hard stops, and driving time. These are only a few examples. What is recorded depends on the truck, but newer ECMs may record additional information.
Cameras: Depending on where the truck accident occurred, there may be camera footage showing what happened. Commercial trucks may also have internal cameras that record what drivers were doing before crashing.
Social media, email, or text messages: Emails, text messages, or social media posts may be uncovered and used as evidence in some cases.
Company records: Other documents or electronic communications may be helpful in a truck accident case.
Can an Attorney Help Me File a Truck Accident Claim?
There are more examples of evidence we could include in this blog. However, these are well-known examples that might be used in a case. Truck accident claims require skilled attorneys with experience investigating these cases. If you or a loved one were hurt during a truck accident, then our attorneys could help you discover who is responsible. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file a claim for damages against the trucking company or other parties. The Texas truck accident attorneys at Mike Love & Associates, LLC have experience investigating and handling truck accident claims. Our attorneys can review your claim at no cost during an initial consultation. Injured? Call today for your free consultation.