With the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge and other border crossings, the Rio Grande Valley sees heavy 18-wheeler traffic every day. When a truck crash happens, the trucking company and its insurer usually start investigating right away. Injured people and their families should move quickly too, because some of the most important evidence can be lost.

Evidence That Can Disappear

• Electronic logging device (ELD) data showing how long the driver had been on duty
• Engine control module ("black box") data showing speed, braking and throttle before impact
• Dash camera and onboard video, which may be recorded over
• Driver qualification and drug test records
• Inspection and maintenance records for the truck and trailer
• Dispatch, GPS and delivery records showing schedules and pressure to deliver
• Surveillance video from nearby businesses, often kept for only days or weeks

How a Preservation Letter Helps

A lawyer can send the trucking company a written demand to preserve evidence. Once the company is on notice, destroying evidence can have serious consequences in court.

Federal Safety Rules Matter

Commercial truck drivers must follow federal hours-of-service limits and other safety rules. Violations, such as driving too many hours or skipping inspections, can be powerful proof of negligence.

Deadline

Most Texas truck accident lawsuits must be filed within two years, but evidence problems start much sooner.

Read more on our 18-wheeler accident lawyer page, or call 956-630-LAWS (5297) for a free consultation.

This post is general information, not legal advice. Attorney responsible: Oscar Lee Longoria Jr., Law Office of Oscar Longoria, PLLC, Mission, Texas.