What Evidence Is Needed in a Truck Accident Claim?

Colburn Law

Posted in Truck Accidents on March 17, 2023

Truck accidents can be devastating, and they often leave victims struggling with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardships. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you could recover financial compensation for your losses by filing an insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party. 

One of the key factors in determining the outcome of a truck accident claim is the evidence presented to support it. There are several pieces of evidence that you could leverage, including police reports, witness testimonies, and the driver’s electronic logs.

Police Report

After a truck accident, law enforcement will likely arrive at the scene to evaluate the collision and create a police report. It is very important to obtain a copy of this report for your records if you intend to file a claim.

This report can provide valuable evidence to support your case, as it details the factors that contributed to the accident. For instance, the report may indicate that the truck driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or that they were driving recklessly, distracted, or fatigued at the time of the accident. It may also highlight any mechanical issues with the truck or equipment that may have played a role in the accident.

Photos and Videos

Photos and videos taken from the scene of the accident can provide vital evidence in a truck accident claim. They can illustrate the extent of the damage to your vehicle, provide insight into the severity of the crash, and help establish liability. Additionally, if you have a dashboard camera, this footage can help identify the cause of the accident, particularly in situations where liability is disputed or where witness accounts conflict with one another. 

Medical Records

Truck accidents can result in serious injuries that require ongoing medical treatment, medication, and sometimes surgery. As a result, you may have incurred extensive out-of-pocket expenses related to your treatment. Providing these records and bills can help establish the extent of your injuries and the financial impact of the accident, which can be instrumental in securing the compensation you deserve.

Drivers’ Logs

Truckers are regulated by numerous federal laws, including limits on the number of hours they are allowed to drive. Electronic logging devices track this information, along with whether drivers took or skipped their mandatory breaks for meals and rest. If the driver involved in your accident failed to take a break and was driving while drowsy at the time of the accident, these records can prove that the driver, the trucking company, or both parties are liable for your injuries. 

Witness Statements

When building your case, you can leverage statements from two types of witnesses to support your claim: those who witnessed the accident and experts who can provide insight into how it occurred. Eyewitnesses can serve as neutral parties and provide testimony that helps corroborate your version of events. On the other hand, expert witnesses can testify about the nature and extent of your injuries or reconstruct the accident to settle any disputes. 

Contact a Washington Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Washington, it’s crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. As soon as possible following your collision, contact a Washington truck accident lawyer to discuss your case and your legal options.