Accidents involving trucks are very complex. They also require extensive investigation to determine the extent of damages and liability. Unlike accidents involving small vehicles, claims for these crashes involve several parties. This includes the drivers, trucking companies, and manufacturers. This makes it crucial for victims to collect proper evidence before submitting their claims.
Like other auto accidents, evidence is the foundation of a substantial truck accident claim. Solid evidence helps establish fault and demonstrate negligence. Every piece of evidence plays an essential role in proving liability. You should have the following evidence of your truck accident claim.
1. Black Box Data
Black box data provides an important piece of evidence for truck crash claims. Like flight data recorders used in airplanes, they store plenty of information about the vehicle’s operation. This data can provide valuable insights into the minutes before the accident. The data can be used to determine liability and reconstruct the events before the accident.
These devices in commercial trucks record several elements of the truck’s performance and driver behavior. This includes speed, braking, engine performance, and impact data. Evaluating the box gives investigators an objective account of the truck’s operation. For instance, driver error may be suggested if the truck was speeding or braked suddenly before the crash.
While black box data is invaluable, accessing it can prove challenging. Some companies and insurers are reluctant to share this information. Besides, stored data often gets overwritten after some period. Victims should promptly engage an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer to ensure the black box is preserved.
2. Truck Maintenance and Inspection Records.
Maintenance and inspection records can also help uncover negligence in accident claims. They offer great insights into whether the company or driver upheld their responsibility to maintain the truck in safe working condition. Unlike regular vehicles, trucks’ size, weight, and mechanical complexity necessitate regular maintenance and thorough inspections. Ignoring this can result in catastrophic accidents. These records reveal crucial details about whether negligence played a role in causing the crash.
Truckers should adhere to strict maintenance schedules to ensure the safety of their fleet. Maintenance issues like brake failures or simple lighting problems can cause accidents. These records help identify mechanical failures and hold the responsible parties accountable. Unfortunately, trucking companies are reluctant to share these records, knowing they can be used as evidence. Companies may also delay or falsify records to avoid liability.
3. Driver Records
Driver records are also crucial pieces of evidence in truck accidents. They can reveal whether the driver is qualified and experienced. They provide valuable insights into the driver’s history and training, which help establish liability after the accident. Instances of negligence or misconduct in the driver’s record can strengthen the victim’s claims.
The records include licensing, driving history, drug and alcohol tests, and experience. Hours of service logs should also be tracked to determine if the driver exceeded driving hours’ limits. Unfortunately, trucking companies should also withhold or alter this information to protect their drivers and themselves from liability. Legal assistance is necessary to subpoena these records.
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Other forms of evidence, like police reports, are also helpful. Victims should also seek expert testimony to strengthen their claims. The quality and quantity of evidence presented directly affect the outcome of the claim. Strong evidence proves liability and ensures that you receive fair compensation.
