Every successful truck accident claim is backed by lots of significant evidence. Injured parties must prove both liability and damages in order to recover compensation for their losses.

If you were hurt in a large truck crash and you intend to take action, here are the kinds of evidence you’ll likely need to gather to bolster your case:

1. Footage from the Scene

Were you able to photograph the wreckage before leaving the scene? If so, put the image files in a secure place. Accident reconstruction experts may be able to deduce what happened by scrutinizing the photos.

Video footage from overhanging surveillance systems or dash cameras that were in the vicinity can also contribute to your claim. Since the footage may be overwritten in a matter of weeks, though, it’s imperative to reach out to those who might have any as soon as possible.

2. Eyewitness Testimony

Passing motorists, their passengers, and nearby pedestrians may have some insight into what happened. They might have seen the trucker dozing off, for example, or driving erratically just before the crash. As such, you should save any names and phone numbers you obtained at the scene, and give them to your legal team so they can obtain statements. 

3. Official Reports

Because the official police report will include the officers’ initial impressions of the scene, it can provide a starting point for the negotiations. The results of any toxicology reports that were conducted in the wake of the wreck could also prove valuable to your claim. 

4. Black Box Data

Nowadays, every big rig is equipped with an event data recorder, or black box. These devices record more than a dozen operational variables, all of which can paint a picture of what happened in the moments leading up to the accident.

5. Medical Records

In order to recover a payout, you’re going to have to prove that your injuries were the direct result of the accident. Doing so will inevitably start with your medical records. These include:

• Hospital logs;
• Diagnostic images;
• Photographs of any visible wounds;
• Prescriptions; and
• Psychological evaluations.

Because such records will be so valuable during the claims process, make sure to request copies of all pertinent documents after every hospital stay and at the end of every doctor’s appointment and physical therapy session. Keeping a personal injury journal in which you write about your daily struggles during your recovery will help contextualize these records. It will also provide some insight into your non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

Speak with a Lafayette Truck Accident Attorney

At Ball Eggleston, we have the resources, strategies, and experience to secure sizable payouts for victims of large truck crashes. If you were struck by a big rig, we’ll help you pursue the maximum payout possible by leaving no stone unturned when conducting our investigation. We will identify all liable parties and then gather the evidence needed to demonstrate the role that each party played. Call (765) 742-9046 or complete our Contact Form to schedule a free case review with a truck accident lawyer in Lafayette.

The content of this blog is intended to be general and informational in nature. It is advertising material and is not intended to be, nor is it, legal advice to or for any particular person, case, or circumstance. Each situation is different, and you should consult an attorney if you have any questions about your situation.