The aftermath of a tractor-trailer accident can be devastating. In these kinds of accidents, an early investigation is vital in determining the cause of the collision. Because there is a lot at stake, trucking companies are likely to begin their investigative work immediately. These companies usually have a wealth of resources at their disposal to conduct such an investigation. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the average individual. In this blog, we explain what to expect during an early investigation of a tractor-trailer accident.
48 Hours After the Accident
The first two days after a tractor-trailer accident are crucial to your case. The scene of an accident can provide important clues and evidence that might reveal how the collision transpired. These clues include:
- The direction of travel & point of impact
- Line-of-sight obstructions
- Dangerous road conditions
- Driver’s condition at the time of the accident
- Eyewitness testimony
- Footage from traffic cameras or bystanders
It’s also important to note that police are obligated to clear accident debris as quickly as possible to keep traffic moving safely. Unfortunately, important evidence can be swept away during this process.
Access to the Record of Duty Log
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, truck drivers and trucking companies must maintain a record of duty for up to six months. This critical piece of evidence is usually accessed during an early investigation. Important information found in the record of duty includes:
- A log of a driver’s route
- List of stops made
- How long a driver has been operating a vehicle
Evidence from the record of duty log can be used to reveal the underlying causes of a tractor-trailer accident and can also be used to establish liability for the collision.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we understand how important the investigation process is to make a tractor-trailer accident claim. We can help investigate your case to ensure that the proper evidence from the accident scene is preserved. When you enlist the services of one of our attorneys, you benefit from the knowledge and skills of our entire firm. Let us put our experience to work for you today.
Contact our Hickory team of truck accident attorneys to get started on your free consultation.
