When you’re involved in a truck accident, whether it’s with an 18-wheeler, big rig, or delivery truck, everything changes in seconds. These accidents often lead to serious injuries and complicated legal questions. That’s why truck accident investigations are so important. They help determine what caused the crash and who is responsible.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how these investigations happen, what evidence is collected, and what steps to take right after a crash. If you’re thinking about calling a commercial truck accident attorney, this guide will also help you understand why legal help is critical.
For personalized advice, please contact Attorney Tyler Monahan, partner at Turner-Monahan, PLLC, to discuss your case.
Why Truck Accidents Need a Detailed Investigation
Unlike regular car accidents, commercial truck crashes often involve:
- Multiple parties (driver, trucking company, insurance providers, cargo loaders)
- Larger vehicles with more damage and injuries
- More complex regulations and evidence
That’s why investigators, insurance adjusters, and truck injury lawyers dig deep to find out what happened.
Step 1: Accident Scene Review
After a crash, investigators move fast. The accident scene tells a big part of the story.
What is gathered:
- Photos of vehicle positions, skid marks, and damage
- Video footage from dashcams or nearby traffic cameras
- Road and weather conditions
- Eyewitness statements
This is often the first chance to get critical evidence before it disappears. This is why many 18-wheeler truck accident attorneys recommend that victims do not delay in hiring legal support.
Step 2: Collecting Physical and Digital Evidence
Truck accidents require both physical and electronic records to fully understand what happened.
Key pieces of evidence:
- Black box data: Most trucks have an Event Data Recorder (EDR) that tracks speed, braking, and more
- Driver logs: To check for fatigue or violations of driving hours
- Maintenance records: To identify if faulty equipment played a role
- Dispatch and communication logs: To see what instructions were given
- A strong semi-truck accident lawyer will know exactly which documents to request.
Step 3: Accident Reconstruction
Using the evidence gathered, experts rebuild the accident step by step. This is called accident reconstruction.
Experts may:
- Use computer models to simulate the crash
- Examine the angle of impact and vehicle damage
- Identify who likely caused the crash
This step helps commercial vehicle accident attorneys show insurance companies and courts exactly what happened.
Step 4: Determining Fault
Once the evidence and reconstruction are complete, investigators determine who is at fault.
The fault could lie with:
- The truck driver (speeding, distracted, or tired)
- The trucking company (overloading, poor maintenance)
- Another driver on the road
- A parts manufacturer (for brake or tire failure)
Texas is a comparative fault state, which means each party’s responsibility matters. That’s why having a knowledgeable commercial truck lawyer is so important.
For thoughtful, trial-tested representation from someone who truly understands what injury victims face, contact Attorney Matthew T. McLain at Turner-Monahan, PLLC.
What To Do After a Truck Accident
The first few hours after a crash are critical. Here’s what to do to protect yourself and preserve evidence:
Immediately After the Accident:
- Call 911 and get medical help if needed
- Take photos and video of the scene
- Get witness contact information
- Do not admit fault or give detailed statements to the insurance
Preserve Evidence:
- Write a spoliation letter: This is a formal request to the trucking company to preserve all potential evidence. A lawyer for semi truck accidents can draft this letter quickly and accurately.
- Keep all medical records and repair estimates
Hiring a commercial truck accident law firm early gives you a major advantage.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases are very different from car crashes. Here’s why legal help matters:
- Trucking companies have aggressive legal teams
- Evidence disappears fast if not preserved
- Regulations are complex
- The injuries are often severe, with long-term effects
A good commercial vehicle injury attorney knows how to fight insurance companies and hold big trucking companies accountable.
Whether it’s a car accident, defective product, or serious injury, Matthew T. McLain brings the skill and compassion you need. Reach out today to discuss your case.
Protect Your Case from Day One – Talk to Turner Monahan PLLC
If you’ve been involved in a crash with a semi truck, delivery truck, or any other commercial vehicle, do not wait. Investigations start immediately, and evidence fades fast.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys, Tyler Monahan or Matthew McLain, to discuss your case and explore your options. Let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state to obtain legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PLLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
