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Semi-truck accidents are among the most dangerous and complex types of motor vehicle collisions. These accidents often result in severe injuries, significant property damage, and complicated legal battles. Gathering the right evidence after a semi-truck accident in Texas is essential to build a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve. At Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys Injury Attorneys, our experienced Austin personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the process.
Below, we outline the critical types of evidence to collect after a semi-truck accident.
Photographs and Videos of the Scene
Visual documentation is one of the most powerful evidence in a semi-truck accident case.
Use your phone to take photos and videos of:
- The positions of all vehicles involved in the accident.
- Damage to the vehicles.
- Skid marks, road debris, and traffic signs.
- Weather and road conditions at the time of the accident.
- Any visible injuries sustained by you or others.
These images can help reconstruct the accident and establish liability.
Witness Information
Eyewitness testimony can provide valuable insight into how the accident occurred. Collect the names, phone numbers, and addresses of anyone who witnessed the crash. Their statements may support your version of events and challenge any conflicting accounts.
Driver Information
Obtain the following information from the semi-truck driver:
- Name, address, and phone number.
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number.
- Employer’s name and contact details.
- Insurance information.
- Vehicle registration and license plate number.
Having this information ensures you know who to contact and who may be liable for your damages.
Police Report
Call 911 immediately after the accident and request a police report.
Law enforcement will document key details about the crash, including:
- Statements from drivers and witnesses.
- Traffic violations or citations issued.
- Preliminary determinations of fault.
This official report is a critical piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Black Box Data
Semi-trucks are equipped with Event Data Recorders (EDRs), called black boxes. Link to Black Box blog)
These devices record essential information such as:
- Speed at the time of the accident.
- Brake application.
- Engine performance.
- Hours of operation.
This data can help determine if the truck driver was speeding, fatigued, or otherwise negligent. Your attorney can work to preserve and retrieve this information before it is overwritten or lost.
Medical Records
Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not manifest right away.
Document your injuries by:
- Keeping copies of your medical records and bills.
- Following your doctor’s treatment plan.
- Maintaining a journal detailing your symptoms and recovery.
Medical evidence is crucial in proving the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
Employment and Income Records
If the accident affects your ability to work, keep records of:
- Pay stubs or salary statements.
- Employer correspondence about your work status.
- Documentation of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
This evidence supports claims for lost income and future financial losses.
Trucking Company Records
The trucking company may hold critical evidence, including:
- Maintenance and inspection records.
- Driver training and employment records.
Hours of Service (HOS) Logs
Your attorney can issue legal requests to obtain this information, which may reveal negligence or regulatory violations.
Dashcam Footage
If you or the truck driver had a dashcam, request copies of the footage. This video evidence can provide a clear and unbiased account of the accident.
Expert Analysis
In some cases, expert testimony is necessary to strengthen your claim. Accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and trucking industry specialists can analyze the evidence and provide professional opinions to support your case.
Why Collecting Evidence Is Essential
The evidence you gather after a semi-truck accident plays a vital role in:
- Proving liability.
- Demonstrating the extent of your injuries and damages.
- Countering false claims by the trucking company or their insurer.
Failing to collect or preserve evidence can weaken your case and reduce your chances of securing fair compensation.
How Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys Injury Attorneys Can Help
At Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys Injury Attorneys, we understand the challenges victims face after a semi-truck accident. Our Austin personal injury attorneys have the experience and resources to gather, analyze, and present compelling evidence to support your claim. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.
Contact Our Skilled Texas Personal Injury Attorneys Today
If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident in Texas, don’t delay. Call our skilled Austin truck accident attorneys at (512) 883-0277 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. We pursue dedicated, driven results for our clients, and there is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you.
