If you were injured in a truck accident, the success of your personal injury claim will hinge on the strength of your evidence. Your personal injury attorney will have to show evidence to prove negligence, liability, and the value of your damages. Over time, though, it is common for evidence to disappear or become unavailable, which is why it is so important to take legal action as soon as possible.
Most commercial trucks carry an electronic control module, also called a “black box,” which tracks information about the driver’s high speed, average speed, time on the road, brake use, and other metrics. This black box data may help your accident lawyer prove that the truck driver was negligent. For example, it may show that the driver was speeding immediately before the collision, or that he or she violated the Hours of Service regulations.
Unfortunately, truck drivers and trucking companies are aware that black box data can be used as evidence against them in a lawsuit. If you do not take action immediately, the data may be damaged or erased.
If you were injured in a truck crash, attorney Ronald W. Truman will help you gather evidence to prove negligence, liability, and the value of your damages. In addition to trying to obtain black box data, Mr. Truman will interview witnesses, assess the police report, examine doctors’ records, and help you fight for the highest possible compensation. Call 435-986-2222 to schedule a free consultation with a Utah personal injury attorney from the Truman Law Firm.
What Other Evidence Might My Accident Lawyer Use to Support My Claim?
Depending on the facts surrounding your case, there are several types of evidence that your attorney may use to prove negligence, liability, and damages after an 18-wheeler wreck. In addition to black box data, your attorney may use the following evidence to support your claim:
- Eyewitness testimonies;
- Testimonies from medical and financial experts;
- Testimonies from accident reconstruction experts;
- Doctors’ records;
- The police report;
- Photos of the crash scene, injuries, and property damage;
- Records from weigh stations;
- Receipts; and
- Timelines and illustrations.
Who Can I Sue after an 18-Wheeler Crash?
In most accidents that involve passenger vehicles, the insurance company of the at-fault driver will pay for damages. However, after a truck accident, there are several parties who may be liable for damages. Depending on the cause of the crash, you may be able to file a claim against:
- The truck driver;
- The party that owned the tractor-trailer;
- The party that owned the rig;
- The party that owned the freight;
- A mechanic; or
- The manufacturer of the truck or its parts.
Attorney Ronald W. Truman can help you identify all liable parties and navigate the claims process. A small mistake, such as making recorded statements or accepting a settlement too early, could significantly reduce the amount of compensation you recover.
Mr. Truman will help you avoid these oversights and fight for the highest possible payout. Call 435-986-2222 to schedule a free initial consultation with an accident lawyer in Utah.
