Truck accidents can be some of the most devastating motor vehicle accidents that happen in Indiana. When the driver of a large commercial truck loses control on a busy highway, occupants of passenger cars usually take the brunt of the damage. If you were involved in a truck accident, you’ll want to make sure that you have everything you need to file a personal injury claim.
Request the official records
One of the most important pieces of evidence in a truck accident claim is the official police report. Whether or not there were any arrests made, there will be an official accident report if police were at the scene. A certified truck inspector may have also been sent to the accident scene to create a report about the condition of the truck. You should request all official reports of your accident including any arrest records.
Gather evidence from the scene
If you were severely injured, it might not have been possible for you to collect photographic evidence immediately following your accident. However, other accident victims or bystanders might have collected evidence with their cameras. It’s a good idea to try to get in touch with these people in order to gather evidence as well as any eyewitness testimony that they might be willing to provide.
Write a spoliation letter
The truck driver and the trucking company they are employed by will have access to electronic driving logs and other key pieces of evidence. To prevent this evidence from being misplaced, you should write what’s called a spoliation letter. A spoliation letter is a simple request to preserve all evidence that is related to the accident.
Get help from an attorney
Truck accident claims can be more complicated than claims for other types of motor vehicle accidents. One of the main differences is that trucking companies have more aggressive insurance providers that work hard to dispute claims. Seeking help from an attorney who is familiar with truck accident claims may lead to a better outcome in negotiations.