What Steps Should Every Truck Wreck Lawyer Do to Investigate?

Every case is different, but more likely than not, your truck wreck team will include an investigator, download expert, mechanical expert, cell phone download expert, reconstructionist, industry expert, human factors expert, fatigue expert, trucking safety compliance expert, truck driving expert truck mechanic expert, conspicuity expert, hazardous materials expert, load securement or cargo expert, biomechanical expert and a mechanical engineer.  These team members should be vetted and be able to be reached on a moment's notice.

There is a ticking clock on the availability of evidence following a truck collision.   Truck wreck lawyers usually do not have the benefit of appearing on scene to talk to law enforcement, interview bystanders, and take pictures of the wreckage.  From the moment a collision occurs the clock begins to tick on the availability of fleeting evidence. Truck wreck lawyers are usually contacted days, if not months later.  By that time, the truck cab and/or trailer has been repaired and put back in service, data has been cleared, wreckage has been salvaged, and witnesses have disappeared.  

Investigating a truck wreck case requires a thorough and comprehensive approach. Here are some steps that may be involved in investigating a truck wreck case:

1. Obtain the police report: The police report is often one of the first pieces of information obtained in a truck wreck case. The report will include details about the accident, including any citations or charges issued to the truck driver or other parties involved.

2. Document the scene of the accident: It is important to document the scene of the accident as soon as possible after the wreck occurs. This may involve taking photographs or videos of the vehicles involved, the roadway, and any other relevant details.

3. Gather evidence from the vehicles: It is important to gather evidence from the vehicles involved in the accident, including the truck's black box data, the driver's logbook, maintenance records, and any other relevant documentation.

4. Interview witnesses: Witness statements can be valuable evidence in a truck wreck case. It is important to interview any witnesses to the accident, including other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

5. Analyze medical records: If anyone was injured in the accident, it is important to analyze their medical records to understand the nature and extent of their injuries.

6. Review applicable regulations: The trucking industry is heavily regulated, and violations of these regulations can be used to establish liability in a truck wreck case. It is important to review the relevant federal and state regulations governing the operation of commercial vehicles.

7. Consider hiring experts: Depending on the specific circumstances of the case, it may be helpful to hire experts, such as accident reconstructionists or medical professionals, to provide opinions on the cause of the accident and the extent of any injuries.

These are just a few of the steps involved in investigating a truck wreck case. Each case is unique, and the investigation will depend on the specific facts and circumstances involved. An experienced truck wreck attorney can provide guidance on how to best approach the investigation in your specific case.

Co-Counsel with Hagen Nares PLLC

Co-counseling allows lawyers to pool their resources, expertise, and experience to provide their clients with the best possible representation. By working together, lawyers can share the workload, conduct a more thorough investigation, and develop a stronger case strategy. Additionally, co-counseling can provide opportunities for professional growth and development by allowing lawyers to learn from one another and expand their knowledge and skills. Ultimately, co-counseling can result in better outcomes for clients, a stronger legal community, and a more just society. Call 720-772-8513 today to schedule a free 1-hour strategy call to discuss your truck wreck case.