What To Expect During A Truck Accident Investigation In Texas

Commercial truck accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries and complex liability issues that require thorough investigation. The truck accident investigation process in Texas involves multiple parties, extensive evidence collection and detailed analysis to determine fault and liability. Understanding this process can help accident victims protect their rights and maximize their potential compensation.

At Kastl Law, P.C., our founder, experienced truck accident attorney Krisi Kastl, guides clients throughout Dallas and across Texas through every stage of their truck accident claims. Ms. Kastl works closely with accident investigation specialists to build strong cases that account for all contributing factors. With decades of experience handling commercial vehicle crashes in Texas, she understands the unique challenges these cases present and how to overcome them effectively.

Initial Steps In The Investigation

The truck accident investigation begins immediately after the collision and continues for weeks or months as evidence is collected and analyzed. Swift action is crucial to preserve critical evidence before it disappears or deteriorates.

The initial investigation typically includes:

• Police reports documenting the accident scene and officer observations, which often contain crucial details about road conditions, weather and preliminary fault assessments
• Emergency responder accounts and medical reports that document injuries at the scene and initial treatment protocols
• Statements from drivers, passengers and witnesses, which provide multiple perspectives on how the accident occurred
• Photographs and video of the accident scene, vehicle damage and injuries, capturing critical evidence before it is altered or cleared away
• Electronic logging device (ELD) data showing driver hours and activities, revealing potential hours-of-service violations
• Black box data recording speed, braking and other truck operations in the critical seconds before impact

This early evidence forms the foundation of your case, and Ms. Kastl knows what to look for when reviewing these critical documents and other forms of evidence.

Advanced Investigation Techniques

As the investigation progresses, Ms. Kastl employs various investigation techniques to develop a comprehensive understanding of the accident causes and contributing factors.

In Texas, these advanced investigation methods often include:

• Accident reconstruction by engineering specialists
• Analysis of trucking company safety records and compliance history
• Review of driver qualification files and training records
• Examination of truck maintenance logs and inspection records
• Assessment of road conditions and environmental factors
• Evaluation of potential mechanical failures or defects
• Cell phone records analysis to identify potential distracted driving

These detailed investigations can reveal violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations or Texas transportation laws that contributed to the accident.

Gathering And Preserving Truck Accident Evidence

Collecting and safeguarding truck accident evidence requires prompt action and legal intervention. Commercial carriers and insurance companies often have rapid response teams that begin their own investigations within hours of a collision.

Critical evidence to secure includes:

• The truck’s electronic control module (ECM) data
• Driver logs and hours-of-service records
• Dispatch instructions and communications
• Trucking company policies and procedures
• Drug and alcohol testing results
• Cargo loading documentation
• Video from dashcams or nearby surveillance cameras

In Dallas and throughout Texas, Ms. Kastl can send spoliation letters to prevent evidence destruction and file court orders to preserve and access critical documentation.

Legal Timeline And Considerations

Texas law provides a two-year statute of limitations for filing truck accident claims, but investigation should begin much sooner. Working with a truck accident lawyer like Ms. Kastl early in the process allows for more comprehensive evidence collection and stronger case building.

The investigation timeline typically involves:

• Initial evidence gathering (first 1-2 weeks)
• Preliminary analysis and liability assessment (2-4 weeks)
• In-depth review of company records and compliance (1-3 months)
• Expert analysis and accident reconstruction (2-4 months)
• Development of comprehensive liability and damages case (3-6 months)

Throughout this process, Ms. Kastl will negotiate with insurance companies while preparing your case for potential litigation if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Contact Our Dallas Truck Accident Investigation Team

Contact Kastl Law, P.C., at 214-427-6043 or through our online form to discuss how Ms. Kastl can help with your truck accident claim. Our firm serves clients throughout Dallas, Fort Worth and the greater North Texas region.