Evidence of Liability for Truck Crashes
Truck accident claims can be more complicated than car accident cases, in part because the evidence of liability can be so complex. Speak with a Spring, TX truck accident lawyer who can help as soon as possible.
Large commercial trucks are complex machines. They are much larger and heavier than regular passenger vehicles, and they have many more parts that can malfunction. When a semi-truck is involved in a crash, it can be more challenging to determine and prove the exact cause of the accident. However, proving the cause of a crash is essential for injured accident victims to recover financially for their losses.
Fortunately, an experienced Spring, TX truck accident attorney will know how to investigate a truck accident and gather evidence of liability. The following are some examples of evidence that you might use to prove who was responsible for your truck accident and injuries.
Police or Federal Safety Reports
Perhaps the most effective evidence of negligence is the authorities finding that the truck driver or trucking company violated a safety law, which might include state traffic laws or federal trucking regulations. There are many different violations for which a citation or even criminal charge might be issued, including:
- Speeding
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Hours of service violations
- Inadequate inspection or maintenance
- Not meeting conspicuity requirements
- Improper passing or failing to yield
- Using a handheld device while driving
- Improper cargo securement
- Weight violations
If the driver or company is found to be in violation of a safety law, it is automatic evidence of negligence. Reviewing reports and court records can provide this type of evidence.
The Truck’s “Black Box”
Just like airplanes and trains, commercial trucks have data recorders that are commonly called the “black box.” This device can give information about the speed of the truck prior to the crash, whether the truck driver hit the brakes, and much more.
Video Evidence
There are video surveillance cameras mounted in more places than you might imagine, and other motorists might also get video of erratic driving or a crash on their smartphones. In addition, many trucking companies are mounting cameras inside of truck cabs, some of which face the road ahead of the truck and others that face the driver. This footage can give insight into what happened in the moments before the crash happened and whether the driver engaged in any misconduct.
Witness Testimony
Often, other people on the road notice something might be wrong before a truck crashes. Their accounts of a truck driver swerving, speeding, or otherwise driving erratically can indicate truck driver negligence. They also might see a tire blow out or other conditions that caused the driver to lose control.
Trucking Companies Documents and Records
Your attorney can use logs and other records to identify negligence, including:
- Hiring records for the driver
- Shift logs
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Drug and alcohol test results for the truck driver
Expert Analysis
In some cases, trucking experts might need to examine the situation and give their opinion on what caused the crash. Expert analysis can be highly persuasive, and your attorney should have a network of professionals who can help with this.
Speak With a Spring, TX Truck Accident Lawyer Today
After a serious truck crash and injuries, you want a Spring, TX truck accident attorney from the Holladay Law Firm handling your case from the start. Call 281-984-3948 or contact us online for more information about how we can help today.