If you’re planning on filing a truck accident claim, you’re probably wondering how to give the action the best chance of success. While there’s no way to guarantee a payout when all is said and done, there are things you can do to increase the likelihood of a satisfactory outcome, and gathering compelling evidence is one of them.
Naturally, the strongest evidence of liability and damages will come down to the facts of the case. There are a few pieces of proof, however, that almost always play a role in truck accident claims. Read on to learn what they are:
1. The Police Report
The official report that responding officers file after leaving the scene usually contains critical details that help investigators assign blame. The best way to obtain a copy of this document depends on the procedures in the municipality where the collision occurred. If you’re unsure how to access the official report, an attorney can help.
2. Black Box Data
Nowadays, virtually every commercial vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder, or “black box.” These devices log dozens of variables over the course of every trip, from speed to brake application to seat belt usage. Depending on how they’re able to interpret this data, accident reconstruction experts can often deduce what happened in the seconds leading up to a crash.
3. Eyewitness Testimony
Unless the accident happened in a remote area, there’s a good chance at least a few people saw it. If you were able to get the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses before leaving the scene, give the information to your legal team. They’ll want to reach out as soon as possible—while the details are still fresh in everyone’s minds—to obtain statements.
4. Driver Logs
Assuming they haven’t been altered, the trucker’s logs could help you prove liability. They might indicate an hours of service violation, for example, which could allow you to make the case that the driver was drowsy. Since motor carriers are only obligated to retain these records for six months, though, it’s imperative that you request copies right away.
5. Health Care Records
Hospital logs, diagnostic images, and the like will serve as the foundation of your damages claim. As such, it’s important that you preserve all the documents you receive from your medical providers.
In that same vein, if you have access to a patient portal, print out the relevant records from each appointment, and then give everything to your legal team.
Speak with a New York Truck Accident Attorney
Were you hurt in a large truck crash through no fault of your own? If you want to hold the liable party accountable, turn to Leitner Varughese for strategic legal counsel.
We have secured more than $150 million in personal injury and wrongful death actions. Call 855-585-2969 or complete our Contact Form to schedule a free initial consultation with a truck accident lawyer. We counsel clients across New York City, Long Island, and throughout the rest of the state.
