Due to their size, truck accidents are far more likely to result in fatalities than collisions between two vehicles of the same size. Louisiana State Police had to contend with one such catastrophe after a garbage truck struck a pickup truck, killing the driver.
Accidents involving big rigs can result in severe injuries. One of the most important things a person can do after such a collision is collect as much evidence as possible. Filing a claim against a commercial truck becomes a bit more complicated because the company itself may hold some liability. Here are some steps to take to preserve evidence to help your case in the event this incident goes to court:
1. Send a letter
After you have seen a doctor and contacted your auto insurance agency, you need to work with your attorney to start preserving evidence. This should include sending a spoliation letter to the company. This is a legal letter where you ask the business to preserve all evidence related to the incident. A lawyer can help ensure that you use the proper language and terminology.
2. Review electronic records
All commercial trucks should have electronic systems onboard that preserve vital information about the truck at the time of the collision. For example, the system will show whether the truck driver was under or over the speed limit when the crash occurred.
3. Inspect driver logs
Trucking companies have to follow precise guidelines in regards to how many hours a day a driver can work and how frequently truck check-ups should occur. Requesting a review of the driver logs can help reveal whether the company itself engaged in unsafe practices that led to the crash.
4. Collect testimony
Directly after the crash occurs, you should see if anyone in the vicinity witnessed the event. You may not be in any condition to interview these witnesses at that moment, but you should get their contact information to speak with them at a later date.