Attorneys investigate truck accidents by carefully reviewing police reports, accident scene photos, and other important evidence. The investigation may also include reviewing witness statements, interviewing witnesses, or both.
If you suffered serious injuries in a truck accident that was no fault of your own, a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you. You may be eligible for compensation regarding your medical costs, loss of income, and your pain and suffering.
Investigating the how and why of your truck accident can help an attorney identify all parties liable for your injuries.
Types of Evidence Important for Your Truck Accident Case
The traumatic experience of a truck accident and your resulting injuries leave you no time to gather evidence. By securing legal representation, your personal injury attorney can investigate your accident and prepare a case on your behalf.
The following are just a few examples of how attorneys investigate truck accidents:
- Obtain and review the official police report: this form of evidence serves as an important framework for identifying liability for your injuries.
- Review accident scene photos and video: both are forms of evidence that may reveal a detail the police missed during the original investigation.
- Read witness statements or interview witnesses: eyewitness accounts of a truck accident can prove valuable to your case.
- Gather medical reports that detail your injuries: this information can connect your injuries to the crash and serve as justification for fair compensation for your current—and possible future—medical costs.
The type of investigation depends upon the severity of the crash, your injuries, and whether the police report is complete. The investigation by police may require additional resources and time if who was at fault remains in question.
For a free legal consultation, call (614) 538-1116
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents occur due to a variety of reasons that can include anything from driver error to mechanical failure—or a combination of both.
Here are just a few examples of reckless actions that can cause a truck driver to lose control of their semi-truck:
Distracted Driving
Long hours on the road make it easy for truck drivers to become bored and distracted. However, this is no excuse for smartphone use behind the wheel or any other type of distracted activity. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented strict rules prohibiting truck drivers from using mobile phones while driving.
Drunk Driving
According to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, the legal blood alcohol limit for those with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is .04 percent. That is far lower than the legal limit of .08 for other licensed drivers in Ohio.
Aggressive Driving
Speeding is a contributing factor to many truck accidents. The demand to deliver their load on time results in truck drivers exceeding posted speed limits and ignoring traffic laws.
Drowsy Driving
There is a federally regulated hours-of-service mandate that dictates when truck drivers must rest. Those with undiagnosed sleep disorders or who are unable to rest properly place other drivers at risk for serious harm.
These are just a few examples of how truck driver behavior can cause them to lose control of their truck in seconds. Other factors that can contribute to truck accidents are faulty brakes, poor tires, and other mechanical problems.
A truck driver must use caution when transporting goods and materials along busy Ohio highways. When they fail to use care, resulting in serious injury for you—or the possible death of a loved one—an attorney may be able to investigate and protect your best interests.
Let Bressman Law Start Investigating Your Truck Accident Today
How attorneys investigate truck accidents depends upon the circumstances of your accident. An attorney investigating your truck accident can examine the police report for the following information:
- Scene inspection
- Vehicle inspections
- Interviews with crash victims
Evidence is easy to misplace, and witness memories can fade. This is why it is essential that you contact Bressman Law as soon as possible. It is imperative that we begin our investigation soon after the crash to collect and review all types of evidence.
The statute of limitations is another reason to act quickly. According to Ohio Revised Code Section. 2501.10, the time for filing your case is generally two years—time that passes quickly when you suffer serious injuries.
Do not speak with insurance companies who want you to accept a settlement. Accepting one without legal representation places you at risk for losing your right to compensation later, should your medical condition worsen.
Your truck accident injuries are not fair. The severity of the crash may leave you unable to return to work or to enjoy your favorite activities. Our no-fee guarantee requires no money upfront—we only get paid if we win your case.
If you suffered serious injuries due to a negligent truck driver, contact Bressman Law now for a free case evaluation: (614) 538-1116.
Call or text (614) 538-1116 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
