When an 18-wheeler is involved in an accident, the results can be devastating. Due to the massive size and weight of these trucks, crashes can cause serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. If you’ve been in an accident with a big rig, gathering the right evidence is crucial to building a strong case. At Aranda Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of such an incident, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Call us today at (915) 996-9914 or contact us online to get the legal help you deserve from a trusted El Paso 18-wheeler accident lawyer.
Why Evidence Is Critical in 18-Wheeler Accident Cases
Unlike regular car accidents, collisions involving 18-wheelers are more complex. This is because multiple parties can be involved, including the truck driver, trucking company, and even manufacturers of truck parts. Solid evidence is key to proving who is at fault. Without the right proof, it’s much harder to receive the compensation you’re entitled to for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Here are some of the most important types of evidence in these cases:
1. Accident Scene Photos and Videos
One of the first pieces of evidence your 18-wheeler accident lawyer in El Paso will look for is photographs or videos from the accident scene. These can help show how the accident occurred, the conditions of the road, the position of the vehicles, and the extent of the damage.
If you or anyone else took photos or videos at the scene, make sure to share them with your attorney. Your lawyer can also gather surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras, which can provide additional insight into how the crash happened.
2. Police Reports
The police report is another critical piece of evidence in 18-wheeler accident cases. Police officers who respond to the scene will document what they see, interview witnesses, and often make an initial determination of who may be at fault. This report can serve as a foundation for your case, as it provides an objective account of the accident from a law enforcement perspective.
Your 18-wheeler accident lawyer will request a copy of this report and use it as part of the evidence to build your case. The information in the police report can help prove liability, especially if the officer notes any traffic violations committed by the truck driver.
3. Witness Statements
Eyewitnesses can provide invaluable testimony about what happened during the accident. They may have seen details that you missed, such as the truck swerving, speeding, or running a red light. Witness statements help confirm your account of the events and strengthen your case.
A skilled attorney will track down witnesses, interview them, and collect statements that can be used in court. These statements can provide a different perspective and help clarify what really happened.
4. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data
Most 18-wheelers are equipped with Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) that track the truck driver’s activities, such as hours of service, speed, and location. This data is crucial in determining whether the driver was following federal regulations, such as limits on how many hours they can drive without a break. Fatigue is a common cause of truck accidents, and ELD data can show whether the driver has been on the road too long.
However, obtaining this information can be tricky, as trucking companies might not be eager to hand over the data. An experienced lawyer knows how to secure this evidence through legal means to support your case.
5. Truck Maintenance and Inspection Records
The condition of the truck at the time of the accident can also play a significant role in determining fault. Trucking companies are required to perform regular maintenance and inspections on their vehicles. If a mechanical issue, such as brake failure or tire blowout, caused the accident, the trucking company could be held liable.
Your attorney will request the truck’s maintenance and inspection records to check if the company followed proper safety protocols. If any neglect is found in maintaining the truck, this evidence can strengthen your claim.
6. Driver’s Training and Employment Records
Truck drivers must meet specific training and licensing requirements before they are allowed to operate such large vehicles. In some cases, a driver involved in an accident may have been inadequately trained or may have had a history of reckless driving. Employment records, including driving history, training, and certifications, are essential in determining whether the driver is qualified to be behind the wheel.
An El Paso 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help gather these records to see if the trucking company hired a driver who was not properly trained or had a poor driving record. This evidence can help show that negligence by the trucking company or the driver led to the accident.
How a Lawyer Can Help Gather Evidence
Collecting all the necessary evidence after an 18-wheeler accident is a complex task. It involves dealing with insurance companies, trucking companies, and other parties who may not have your best interests in mind. A lawyer experienced in truck accident cases will know how to handle these obstacles and secure the evidence you need for a successful claim.
Here’s how a lawyer from Aranda Law Firm can assist you:
Preserving Evidence: In some cases, crucial evidence can be lost or destroyed if not preserved in time. A lawyer can send a legal notice to the trucking company to ensure that important records, such as ELD data and maintenance logs, are not tampered with.
Expert Analysis: Some pieces of evidence, such as accident reconstruction or mechanical failures, may require expert analysis. A lawyer can connect you with industry experts who can provide testimony to support your case.
Handling Negotiations: Trucking companies and their insurers often try to minimize their payouts or avoid liability altogether. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, an 18-wheeler accident lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. With the right evidence and a strong legal strategy, your chances of winning the case are much higher.
Get the Legal Help You Need with Aranda Law Firm
Being involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler can be life-changing, but you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. The right evidence can make or break your case, and a skilled attorney can help you gather and present this evidence effectively. At Aranda Law Firm, we have the experience and resources to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, don’t wait to get help. Call Aranda Law Firm today at (915) 996-9914 for a free consultation. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and guide you through the legal process with confidence.
