When a massive semi-truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. But what caused the crash? Increasingly, the answer lies in digital evidence—from dashcam video to GPS records. This electronic proof can make or break your claim, revealing trucker negligence or faulty maintenance.
If you've been injured in a crash, the legal team at Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum can help. Our experienced Rhode Island truck accident lawyers understand the critical role digital evidence plays in these cases. We work tirelessly to uncover every byte of electronic data to build a compelling case on your behalf. Here's what you need to know.
The Black Box Doesn't Lie
Much like airplanes, commercial trucks carry electronic logging devices (ELDs) that record critical data. These so-called "black boxes" provide an objective account of the vehicle's operation, often exposing safety violations or mechanical issues. The information captured by ELDs can be instrumental in proving fault and liability. Key data points include:
- Speed at impact. ELDs precisely document the truck's speed before and during a crash, exposing speeding violations.
- Hard braking events. Sudden stops suggest driver distraction or fatigue.
- Engine performance. Mechanical issues can signal improper maintenance.
This objective information often contradicts a driver's story, which can prove powerful in court.
Dashcam Footage Shows What Happened
Forward and rear-facing dashcams on involved vehicles capture the moments leading up to a truck collision, providing a visual narrative of the accident. This video evidence can be compelling, especially when it contradicts a truck driver's account. Dashcam footage may reveal:
- Erratic lane changes. Video evidence of swerving or drifting paints a vivid picture of negligence.
- Tailgating and aggressive driving. Following too closely is a leading cause of rear-end truck accidents.
- Road and weather conditions. Dashcam footage documents visibility and road hazards.
While trucking companies often resist releasing this proof, an experienced attorney can compel them to share it.
GPS Tracking Maps the Story
GPS records don't just show a truck's location. This data creates a detailed timeline of the driver's behavior, providing valuable insights into the events leading up to the crash. By analyzing GPS information, truck accident attorneys can often uncover strong evidence of negligence, such as:
- Speeding patterns. Comparing GPS data to posted speed limits exposes habitual speeding.
- Hours of service violations. Driving for too many consecutive hours causes fatigue-related crashes.
- Unusual or inconsistent routes. Unexpected detours can indicate distracted or impaired driving.
Obtaining and interpreting GPS records requires legal expertise but yields game-changing evidence.
Cell Phone Records Speak Volumes
Distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents. Cellphone logs provide a minute-by-minute account of the driver's activities. These records can reveal shocking safety violations that directly contribute to crashes. Attorneys look for red flags like:
- Texts and calls. Using a cellphone while driving is both negligent and illegal.
- App and internet use. Checking social media or watching videos proves egregious distraction.
- Deleted data. Even erased messages can often be recovered with a subpoena.
Preserving and analyzing cellphone evidence is challenging but critical for your case.
Social Media Posts Reveal Damning Details
A truck driver's online activity can expose shocking safety violations and strengthen your claim. While most people don't think twice about their digital footprint, social media history often provides a treasure trove of evidence for savvy attorneys. Posts of interest may include:
- Photos and videos. Posts showing unsafe driving or vehicle conditions can be used as evidence.
- Status updates. Comments about fatigue, substance abuse, or prior crashes establish negligence.
- Fitness tracker data. Wearable devices can document a driver's sleep deprivation.
A skilled attorney will investigate the driver's social media history to uncover this revealing proof.
Winning Your Case in a Digital World
In today's increasingly connected world, electronic evidence is becoming more critical than ever in truck accident claims. From dashcam footage that captures every moment of impact to GPS data that reveals hours of service violations, this digital proof can be the key to securing the compensation you deserve.
However, accessing and leveraging this complex data requires specialized legal knowledge and technical skill. Trucking companies and their insurers will do everything in their power to withhold or undermine this evidence. That's why you need an attorney who not only understands the intricacies of truck accident law but also possesses the digital savvy to go head-to-head with these well-funded adversaries.
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we work with leading tech experts to preserve, analyze, and present digital evidence in a compelling way. We'll leave no byte unexamined in our mission to maximize your recovery. Let us put our digital expertise to work for you.