Evidence is a critical tool in truck accident investigations. It provides clarity on who is at fault and on your ongoing losses. Comprehensive evidence helps you hold insurance companies and truck drivers accountable for their mistakes and recklessness. Consider some of the most important types of key evidence in a Houston truck accident lawsuit.
Photos and Videos
In some situations, this is the most important evidence available. Photos of the accident scene help demonstrate what happened. Accident reconstruction professionals use that information to determine who caused the accident based on vehicle placement, damage type, and the severity of the outcome. This is critical information that helps solidify the fault.
Videos are another valuable form of evidence. There may be situations where videos are available from the accident itself, such as traffic camera surveillance footage. However, in truck accidents, dash cam videos can be even more valuable. Many trucking companies use these cameras to help hold drivers accountable and minimize false claims. Getting these videos can clearly demonstrate what happened.
Witness Statements
Witnesses are anyone involved in the accident or those who saw what occurred. These people provide valuable insight into whether the drivers were distracted, fatigued, or driving aggressively. This information can help show what photos cannot, such as the anger in the truck driver’s actions or the fact that a driver was seen adjusting navigational devices.
Commercial Vehicle Data
In recent years, many commercial trucks have had black boxes installed. These videos often show the truck’s actions before an accident. For example, black box data from a commercial vehicle can show the truck’s speed and whether the driver was braking excessively. This can shed light on what was happening right before the accident happened, potentially showing the driver was intoxicated, fatigued, or driving aggressively.
Official Reports and Documentation
Police will investigate all truck accidents, and state and federal authorities may also be involved. The data from these investigations could help you with your case, especially when the trucking company is found to be in violation of federal trucking laws. Police reports often provide valuable insight into what the officer observed, what witnesses stated immediately after the accident, and who offered a conflicting account of the evidence.
These reports also document the sequence of events, the conditions at the time of the accident, the actions of those involved during and after the accident, and even whether there were any visible distractions or limitations.
Additionally, data from the trucking company, such as maintenance logs, driver records, training records, and work schedules, also serve as valuable evidence in your case. These bits of information may demonstrate fault. Showing fault can help to establish and build your case by providing the necessary evidence of what occurred.
Your Medical Records and Other Records
In addition to proving fault, evidence must also substantiate your injuries and the losses you have suffered. Your medical records, expert testimony, and your statements about injuries are all valuable resources. These can be used to help show what occurred in the accident.
Schedule a Free Consultation to Discuss Your Accident with Us
The Doan Law Firm is the reliable resource you need in these difficult times. Speak to our Texas truck accident attorney to learn what your rights are. We offer free consultations that answer critical questions.