Big rigs travel across the roads of California regularly without incident. However, some end up in devastating accidents with smaller passenger vehicles, leaving victims injured. If you have filed a truck accident case, this is what you need as evidence to back up your claim.
Accident report
One of the most important pieces of evidence you can obtain for any type of motor vehicle accident is a copy of the accident report. This includes vital information about how it occurred, the events during and what caused it. The report might also include traffic citations issued to the trucker.
Photos
Pictures of all aspects of the accident scene can show the extent of the damage. You can also use photos of your injuries sustained in the truck accident to prove your case. If your case requires an investigative team to reconstruct the collision, your photos can help in that area as well.
Electronic logs
Truck drivers are required to use electronic logging devices (ELDs) to ensure that they comply with federal rules and regulations regarding their hours worked and mandatory breaks. Data from these devices can show evidence of whether the trucker complied with these laws or violated them, which can be crucial in making your case.
Witness statements
Eyewitness statements can strengthen your side of the trucking accident claim. You need the names and contact information of these people in the event that they need to testify on your behalf if your case goes to trial. You can also get written or recorded statements from witnesses.
Phone records
The truck driver’s cell phone records may be evidence of whether the driver was using their phone at the time of the accident. This could prove whether distracted driving played a part in the crash.
Blood or breath tests
If the trucker was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of an accident, a breath or blood test would have been later administered to determine their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. If such tests exist, they are vital evidence for your claim.
The more evidence you’re able to gather after a truck accident, the better it is for your lawsuit.