A truck accident is a frightening catastrophe that is incomparable to any other vehicular accidents. The impacts are massive and not just physical, but emotional and financial as well. Securing evidence is an important part of building a case and accomplishing it within the first twenty-four hours is crucial.
Evidence is necessary to back your claim. It is the only proof of the driver’s negligence. And a slight delay in acquiring it could diminish the chances its retrieval. Every little piece of information in the crash site is considered evidence. Following are a few ways to secure evidence.
Retrieving Black Box Data
A black box is an electronic system that monitors the performance of trucks. It includes an Electronic Control Module (ECM) that controls various functions of the engine, fuel efficiency, emissions and so on. Another component is the Event Data Recorder (EDR) which records valuable information in the event of an accident. It records highest speed, average speed, average RPM (revolutions per minute), usage of seat belt, performance of the driver, fatigue, braking frequency and so on.
Since most of the black boxes are integrated with a Global Positioning System (GPS), the location of the truck during the crash can be tracked easily. Additionally, the electronic log books record the duration of duty of drivers. Any violation of the stipulated time would be located in this device. These help in reconstructing the accident scene from the ground up.
Speaking to Witnesses
Witnesses play key roles in backing up truck accident claims. Those who were present at the scene of the accident would be able to recount the incident from a neutral point of view. Witnesses can not only confirm details of the accident but can also provide certain information pertaining to the incident that you were not aware of.
You need to identify the witnesses and note down their names, addresses and contact numbers. You can identify witnesses at the scene or from police reports or even from the witnesses you have already identified. What would help is a typed copy of the account signed by the witness. If the witness is co-operative and willing to testify, it will add muscle to your case.
Aerial Photography
Sometimes it becomes quite impossible to collect all the evidence in a short period of time. This is where aerial photography comes in. This technique can be employed to capture images of the accident scene from the top. It is extremely useful in reconstructing the entire scene of the accident. This kind of mapping enhances visibility by providing a thorough demonstration of the accident scene.
Aerial photography can capture:
Direction of travel of both vehicles
Point of braking of both
Point of impact
Point of rest
It is extremely accurate and plays a major role in building a strong case for the victims.
After a truck accident, it is important to act quickly, since evidence can be lost or tampered with. An attorney can help you secure vital evidence that can work in your favor in your truck accident claim.
About the author: Greg Baumgartner handles truck accident lawsuits for victims of truck accidents in Texas. He is an expert The Texas Truck Accident Lawyer with an exemplary track record.