Involvement in a truck accident in California can be devastating and traumatizing, with effects that last long after the accident. Truck accidents often result in much higher injuries and fatalities than car accidents. These trucks, also known as semis or tractor-trailers, big rigs and 18-wheelers, can weigh more than 70,000 pounds when carrying a load.
Collecting evidence in a truck crash case is more complex than in a standard car crash. The following critical evidence can help familiarize you with the vital information you are likely to need for your case.
Collect the basic information
In the case of a truck accident, you will still need the basic information you would need in Motor Vehicle Accidents involving passenger cars. This list includes the following items:
- Police report
- Photos of the scene
- Witness statements
You will also need to document any cuts, scrapes or other injuries you sustained. You should take photos of tire or skid marks and any additional information showing damage to your vehicle, the involved truck or personal property at the scene.
Collect information on the truck, the trucker and the trip
Commercial truck accidents are unique because the fault could lie with another party besides the driver. The shipper, trucking company, loading company, parts manufacturer or other parties could be liable. The following list includes several items that may contain critical evidence for your case:
- The logbook
- Blackbox data and in-cab camera footage
- Trucker inspection records and truck maintenance records
- Trucker’s personnel file
- Documents from the shipper
- The driver’s qualifications and driving record
- Alcohol and drug-testing information
- Dispatch instructions
- Weigh station and loading dock records
Some of the above records are held only for a short duration. Black box data can be recorded over within 30 days, so the information must be collected quickly.
Collecting all the critical information regarding a truck accident can provide much-needed evidence and support for the injured party or parties. If you or someone you know has been involved in a trucking accident, please feel free to contact The Law Office of Aman N. Shah for a free consultation.
