Collisions with semi trucks can lead to catastrophic injuries, and even fatalities. When the truck driver’s negligence caused the accident, your first course of action is likely to seek compensation from the driver or their employer to cover the cost of your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses.
Complications in a truck accident case can arise because insurance companies are always looking for ways to minimize a settlement offer or deny a claim altogether.
Here are the types of evidence that can be used to prove your case and how personal injury lawyers can help.
Every commercial trucking accident is different. Your attorney will examine the facts of the case and look for any and all available evidence.
Missouri law requires that you report any accident to the police if it results in either death, injury, or property damage over $500. Due to the size of commercial trucks, this threshold is almost always met.
The police report can be a first source of information that your attorney can use to establish the fault of the accident and determine liability. You can also request a copy of the police report, but only your attorney can receive an unredacted version, which could contain critical evidence.
Photos and Videos
If you are able to take photos and videos at the scene of the crash, that is strong evidence. However, if you are injured or not in a state of mind that allows you to capture this evidence, all hope is not lost. The police, other parties, or witnesses may also have access to photographic and video evidence that can be used for your case.
Surveillance Footage
In today’s modern world, surveillance footage may exist that captures the circumstances of the accident. This is especially true if the accident occurred at an intersection, or another area populated with cameras.
Hearing from people who witnessed the truck accident can also be an invaluable source of evidence. This is especially true if the statements from other witnesses corroborate your version of events. If possible, document the names, contact information, and their recollection right after the truck accident occurred to preserve the evidence and enhance its credibility.
Unlike most passenger vehicles, commercial trucks and trucking companies maintain vast amounts of data that can support your case. This includes:
Often, the amount of compensation you can receive hinges upon the severity of your injuries. By following your doctor’s orders and keeping careful documentation of your medical bills and treatments, you will have significant evidence to prove the extent of your injuries.
Proving your injuries and medical expenses from your medical records is a valuable source of evidence, and so is keeping a personal diary. Your diary can document the stages of your recovery and detail the numerous ways the trucking accident has adversely impacted your life.
The information you can document in your diary includes:
We understand that you are going through a difficult time, both physically and emotionally. At The Law Offices of Kevin Roach, we help truck accident victims negotiate with insurance companies, and we are prepared to go to trial if necessary. Contact us at (636) 942-6713 for a free consultation.
