Look beyond the vehicles
A crash involving a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle may raise questions about the driver, the motor carrier, maintenance, and other circumstances. Identifying who had responsibility requires investigation; a company’s connection to the truck does not automatically establish liability.
Different records can tell different parts of the story
Depending on the circumstances, useful evidence may include photographs, witness accounts, electronic logging records, dispatch communications, inspection records, maintenance information, and available vehicle data. Not every truck has the same equipment, and not every record will be available or relevant.
Preservation deserves early attention
Federal recordkeeping rules are one reason to act promptly. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration states that carriers must retain drivers’ records of duty status and supporting documents for six months. That is a retention requirement, not a deadline for filing an injury lawsuit or a guarantee that all crash evidence will remain available. Read the FMCSA guidance.
Records need context
A document alone rarely answers every question. Investigators may need to compare records with the roadway, physical damage, witness accounts, and other evidence. Depending on the case, qualified experts may help interpret technical information. Collecting evidence and evaluating what it actually supports are both important.
A focused approach to your claim
Mortimer Injury Law works to identify, preserve, collect, and evaluate relevant evidence while helping clients understand their options. We pursue appropriate settlements and are willing to take cases to trial when necessary. Our goal is to give your case careful attention while you focus on recovery.
General information, not legal advice. The law and its application depend on the facts of each case. Contacting our office does not create an attorney-client relationship.