The Importance of Promptly Investigating Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are unlike any other accidents on our roads due to the catastrophic injuries and significant damages. In truck accidents, prompt investigation is critical. Every day that passes after a serious truck accident makes it harder to gather the critical evidence needed to hold negligent parties accountable. As such, the importance of promptly investigating a truck accident cannot be overstated. Here is why swift investigation into truck accidents is essential.
On-Scene Investigation
The accident scene holds critical clues that form the foundation of a truck accident investigation. Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions, and vehicle placements can be used to demonstrate how the truck accident happened and who could be liable. However, these elements are fleeting as skid marks fade, debris gets cleared, and road conditions change. A prompt on-scene investigation captures these details before they are lost.
Black Box Data
Trucks are often equipped with data recorders, commonly known as black boxes. This system keeps track of critical information about the truck, including the speed, braking, and engine performance leading up to the accident. Unfortunately, such crucial data is not stored forever, as some black boxes overwrite their data in as little as three to four weeks. Trucking companies and their insurance companies may also deliberately wipe this data to avoid liability for the accident. Therefore, investigating and obtaining this data promptly is essential.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witness testimony can be invaluable in establishing what happened. Since eyewitnesses are not directly acquainted with the plaintiff, their credibility may leave a strong impression on jurors, making their testimony a powerful asset in court. However, memories can fade since we are all human, and witnesses may become more challenging to locate. Securing statements while the memory is fresh ensures that facts about the truck accident are as accurate and detailed as possible.
Truck Maintenance
Prompt investigations about a truck’s condition can reveal any negligence on the trucking company’s part. If, for example, the truck was poorly maintained, this can indicate a breach of duty of care, and the liable parties can be held responsible. If these records are not obtained immediately, there is a chance they could be misplaced or concealed.
Driver Background and Behavior
If the driver has a history of violations, substance abuse, or fatigue-related incidents, this may indicate negligence. Prompt background checks can uncover patterns of unsafe behavior that may have contributed to the accident.
Statute of Limitations
In addition to preserving critical evidence, there is a strict deadline for filing truck accident claims. The statute of limitations in Florida is two years for personal injury cases. While this may seem like ample time, delays in investigations can jeopardize a case’s strength. Acting quickly ensures you are not barred from filing a lawsuit against responsible parties.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Truck Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident involving a truck in Fort Lauderdale, do not delay. The sooner you act, the better your chance of receiving the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact our Fort Lauderdale truck accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm to help secure critical evidence promptly and pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Ocala, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0095/Sections/0095.11.html#:~:text=(5)%E2%80%83WITHIN,founded%20on%20negligence.
