In order to receive fair compensation for your truck accident injuries, it is imperative you secure certain key pieces of evidence regarding the accident, the truck driver, and the trucking company. Documentation is also important, such as the driver’s logs, bills of lading, and delivery receipts. The more evidence you preserve, the higher your chances for a valid claim and fair compensation.
Pieces of Evidence to Collect
Missouri truck accidents are some of the most devastating. If you or a loved one is involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, do what you can to protect these five pieces of evidence:
- Physical Evidence from the Accident – This can include roadway debris, photographs of skid marks, photographs of the positioning of the truck and vehicle (and any other vehicles involved), and photographs of the weather conditions and road condition. If you are unable to gather this evidence, have a passenger, family member, or friend go to the site and take photos on your behalf.
- Witness Statements – Written and signed statements from eyewitnesses who saw the truck accident is critical. You do not need to get their statement at the scene, but you must secure their contact information so that you or an attorney can follow up with statements and questions later.
- Electronic Onboard Recording Devices – Semi-trucks throughout the U.S. have electronic recording devices that monitor all movements of the truck, including movements leading up to a crash. It can also track the number of hours the semi-truck is in operation each day and help determine if the driver was pushing past the legal number of hours they are permitted on the road at one time.
- Trucking Company Records – These may be difficult to obtain on your own; therefore, you should speak to a personal injury attorney in Missouri. An attorney can request the records, including the driver’s employment application, their driving history, Out of Service inspections, and all maintenance records for the truck. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires all trucking companies to keep these documents.
- The Truck – Your attorney can draft and send what is known as a “spoliation letter” to the trucking company and their insurance company, requesting that the trailer is preserved – including all contents – until your own expert has had the opportunity to examine it. Because a trucking company will be in a hurry to repair the truck and get it back into operation, this is one of the first steps you should take.
Speak With a Missouri Truck Accident Attorney
Horn Law, located in the Kansas City Metro, can help you with your truck accident claim. We will petition for the proper records, help collect and preserve evidence, and use our expertise to exercise your right to fair compensation. Contact an attorney online or call (816) 795-7500 to schedule a no obligation consultation.
