After a truck accident, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. The investigation that follows these collisions is crucial for determining your path forward. Knowing who was at fault for the collision will tell you what type of Atlanta truck accident claim you can file and what types of compensation you can recover.
A thorough and well-conducted investigation can provide the evidence needed to support your claim, protect your rights, and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. Here is what you need to know about the process.
Who Investigates Truck Accidents in Atlanta?
Several entities may investigate a truck accident in Atlanta. Law enforcement officers, such as the Atlanta Police Department or the Georgia State Patrol, will typically respond to the scene and create an initial accident report. This report will include details about the vehicles involved, the location of the accident, and any immediate observations or statements.
In addition to law enforcement, insurance companies will likely conduct their own investigations. It is important to remember that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and may not always have your best interests in mind.
To protect your rights, it is essential to work with a truck accident attorney. Your attorney will launch an independent investigation, gathering evidence and consulting with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
What Types of Documents and Evidence Are Used in an Investigation?
During the investigation, various types of evidence and documentation will be collected and analyzed. Some of the most critical pieces of evidence include:
- Police Reports: The official accident report can provide valuable information about the circumstances of the crash and initial findings.
- Witness Statements: Accounts from individuals who saw the accident occur can help corroborate your version of events and provide additional perspectives.
- Photographs and Video Footage: Visual evidence of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries can be invaluable in demonstrating the severity and circumstances of the crash.
- Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries, treatment, and ongoing care can establish the extent of your damages and the impact the accident has had on your life.
- Truck Driver Logs: Commercial truck drivers are required to maintain detailed logs of their hours of service, which can reveal violations of federal regulations or evidence of driver fatigue.
- Maintenance and Inspection Records: Documents showing the truck’s maintenance history and inspection reports can indicate whether the vehicle was safe to operate.
- Black Box Data: Many commercial trucks are equipped with electronic data recorders, which can provide valuable information about the truck’s speed, braking, and other factors.
Contact an Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyer at Monge & Associates Today
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Atlanta, you need all the support possible to prove your right to compensation. A truck accident attorney will have the knowledge, resources, and experience necessary to navigate the complex process of gathering evidence and proving your right to fair compensation.
At Monge & Associates, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate every aspect of your accident, from driver logs and maintenance records to accident reconstruction and witness statements. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the truth and will use the evidence we gather to build a strong case on your behalf. Contact us today at (678) 535-3938 for a free consultation and learn how we can secure the justice that you deserve.