Truck accidents are among the most dangerous types of collisions that occur in Florida. Since big rigs are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, they have a significantly longer stopping distance and can cause much more damage than crashes involving two cars. When a large truck causes a catastrophic collision that results in devastating injuries or fatalities, the victims might be entitled to pursue compensation through truck accident claims. Knowing the types of evidence to gather can help to strengthen their cases and increase the chances they will be successful in their lawsuits.
Why gathering evidence is important
Truck accident plaintiffs are required to prove their legal claims by a preponderance of the evidence. If a plaintiff fails to gather and present evidence, they won’t be able to prove their claim or recover compensation for their losses. Truck collisions are complex and frequently involve substantial sums because of the extent of the injuries. Because of this, trucking companies and their insurers aggressively defend against claims. Truck accident victims need to gather as much evidence as possible from the accident scene, through the discovery process, and with the help of experts.
Important types of evidence in a truck accident lawsuit
In claims involving commercial vehicle accidents, the victims should gather as much evidence as possible. The following are some of the common types of evidence that might be important in a trucking collision lawsuit:
- Police reports
- Photographs and video from the accident scene
- Accident reconstruction report
- Black box/electronic logging device records
- Maintenance records
- Witness statements
- Expert witness reports and testimony
- Medical records
- Driver personnel records
Evidence from a truck accident is crucial for proving a legal claim. Injured accident victims should try to gather as much evidence as possible from the scene. If they can’t gather it themselves, asking a friend or family member to do so is helpful. Seeking immediate medical care can also help to show the extent of the person’s injuries and their severity.