Adoption 101: The Legal Fundamentals

3 Types Of Evidence Needed In Semi Crash Claims

5 September 2019

Brayden Miles

Semitrucks can be found on public roadways at almost any time of the day or night. The shortage of drivers means that those behind the wheel of these big rigs often have very little driving experience. Combined with the larger size of a semi, heavy loads and driver inexperience can lead to serious collisions with passenger cars.

All major trucking companies carry robust insurance policies designed to help cover the cost of any damages sustained in an accident involving a semitruck.

Unfortunately, the burden of proof lies with the victim to prove that the semi driver was at fault and that compensation should be awarded. A personal injury attorney can help you obtain the evidence you need to prove your case.

1. Foundation Evidence

Foundation evidence is the most basic type of evidence needed to prove your case in a personal injury lawsuit. This kind of evidence includes witness statements, testimony from medical professionals, copies of any police reports pertaining to the accident, and medical bills to show the cost of treating your injuries.

It is usually fairly easy to obtain foundation evidence, it just takes a lot of time to contact each individual or agency asking for the evidence to be forwarded to you. An attorney can handle all of the logistics to ensure that you have enough foundation evidence to present your case.

2. Event Data Recorder Evidence

Most of the large semitrucks in operation on roadways today are equipped with an event data recorder. This component is much like the black box on an aircraft. The event data recorder tracks vehicle speed, engine RPMs, brake applications, and steering angle at the time of impact.

Your attorney can use the information collected by a semitruck's event data recorder to help prove that the accident you were in was caused by the actions of the driver behind the wheel of the big rig.

3. Electronic Logging Device

Another type of evidence you will want to secure is information tracked by the electronic logging device in the semitruck. All drivers who operate a semitruck are required to follow federal standards and regulations. Some of these regulations govern the number of hours an individual can drive and how often the driver must take breaks to sleep or rest.

If the information collected from the electronic logging device shows that the driver was in violation of government regulations at the time of your accident, it will be much easier to prove that you are entitled to financial compensation.

Share

Search