Trucking is a highly regulated industry. Therefore, there is often additional evidence available (and necessary) when a commercial truck crashes. This include:
Safety Measurement System: The SMS database is basically an interstate driving record specifically for long-haul truckers. The federal government keeps track of things like substance use and prior tickets. Significantly, the SMS usually draws on law enforcement records, so it is more accurate than secondhand court records.
Electronic Logging Device: As mentioned, many truck drivers are behind the wheel for a dangerously long time. The ELD provides almost bulletproof evidence as to HOS (Hours of Service) compliance. Shipping industry lawyers bitterly fought the ELD mandate, because they know what a game-changer these devices could be.
Event Data Recorder: Much like the black box flight recorders inside commercial jets, EDRs measure and store information like vehicle speed and steering angle. Large vehicle EDRs are very complex devices, so a Grand Rapids truck accident attorney must have the right tools and knowledge to access this information.
Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Records
Evidence is not only important to meet the burden of proof. Generally, there is a direct relationship between the amount of evidence the victim/plaintiff presents and the amount of damages jurors award. To learn more about your unique case, speak to a Grand Rapids accident lawyer during a free consultation.