When a truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the consequences can be devastating. Weighing considerably more than the average sedan or SUV, these giant vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries and untold property damage in a collision.
Thankfully, you may be able to receive compensation for many of the losses stemming from a truck wreck by filing a personal injury claim. However, proceedings are rarely—if ever—straightforward, and the trucking company and their insurer will likely be looking for any reason to dispute your case.
One of the best ways to overcome challenges during the claims process is to gather strong evidence. While the evidence you will need can vary from one case to the next, there are some types of proof that will invariably play a role in a truck accident claim, such as:
1. Blackbox Data (EDR)
All commercial trucks are equipped with devices that will contain useful information such as the vehicle’s speed, brake application, and other metrics at the moment of impact. The data on a truck’s black box could help you prove fault. For example, if it shows that the driver was speeding in the moments before the accident, this could help you prove that they were being negligent.
2. Repair, Maintenance, and Inspection Records
In a bid to squeeze out extra profits, it’s not unheard of for trucking companies to cut corners when it comes to maintaining and repairing their vehicles. Such negligence can lead to mechanical failures, potentially causing serious accidents. If these records show that the trucking company did not take proper care of their fleet, these documents can be used as evidence to prove liability.
3. Dashcam and Surveillance Camera Footage
Whether you captured footage of the accident on your vehicle’s own dashcam, someone else managed to record a video on theirs, or a nearby surveillance camera was pointed in the right direction, such recordings could help you prove fault. If you were able to obtain these videos yourself, you should make copies and store them on a reliable backup hard drive or cloud server.
4. Expert Witness Testimony
There are certain individuals that—because of their qualifications and experience in a specific field—can present their opinion about the facts of a case during proceedings. For example, an accident reconstructionist can assess evidence from the accident scene such as photographs and videos to determine what happened and who was responsible for causing the accident. Alternatively, a vocational expert could testify regarding the ways in which your injuries inhibit your ability to do your job.
Discuss Your Case with a Truck Accident Attorney in Cleveland, Ohio
A truck accident can be a terrifying experience. However, the trauma of this event can quickly be eclipsed by the excruciating pain, life-changing limitations, and sky-high medical bills in the weeks that follow. Fortunately, you won’t have to face these challenges alone.
At Obral Silk & Pal, LLC, our legal team can assist with almost every aspect of your case. We can also help guide you through proceedings, explaining your role at each stage. To schedule a free consultation with a truck accident attorney in Ohio, dial 216-502-4281 or fill out our Contact Form here.
