
Truck accidents are among the most serious types of accidents on the roads. Large commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which is significantly heavier than a standard passenger car. It is no surprise that truck accidents result in severe and life-threatening injuries.
If you were hurt in a truck accident, it is essential to get legal assistance from a reputable Houston truck accident attorney. At our law firm, we understand truck crashes and know how to gather evidence and negotiate your claim to get you the maximum settlement. Understanding what information is necessary for a truck accident investigation is crucial to building a strong case.
Truck accidents are extremely complex and require tenacious investigation. The earlier you start the inquiry, the better it will be for the case. The best truck accident attorneys have quick response teams ready to start your investigation. There are several key components to a truck accident investigation. Your attorney will take charge of gathering and reviewing information about the incident, such as:
The police report of the accident serves as a starting point for reviewing the crash. The report provides information gathered by the police at the scene. Your attorney will find the contact information of the other driver, the insurance company, and witnesses.
Eyewitnesses provide statements to the police immediately after the crash. Your attorney will review the statements and may need to get further details. Witnesses may be required to provide oral or written statements, and they may be called to appear in court.
Commercial trucks are generally required to have data recorders on board. An accident expert will review the information to learn the speed of the truck at the time of the crash, whether the driver applied the brakes, and other useful data. It is essential to gain access to the electronic log as soon as possible after the accident.
The driver keeps track of his work through a log, which is typically in electronic format. The log records the driver’s time on the road and other relevant details. The driver must have followed regulations that require them to take breaks and stop driving at the end of a shift. The failure to comply may show that the driver was fatigued at the time of the incident.
Texting while driving is against the law. Your attorney can get cell phone records of the driver with a subpoena. The records will indicate whether the driver was talking or texting at the time of the crash.
Trucking companies must maintain their trucks in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements. When a truck is not properly maintained, a mechanical malfunction could cause or contribute to a crash. The trucking company keeps these records, and a subpoena may be necessary to obtain them.
Trucks carry a significant amount of cargo. The load must be properly secured. When a truck makes a sudden movement, the load can shift unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to lose control. Additionally, the shipment records indicate the pickup and destination of the cargo.
Contact the Texas truck accident lawyers for help regarding a serious injury or fatal truck accident in Texas. We have helped victims and their families for more than four decades and remain undefeated in commercial vehicle accident cases.
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