Preservation and Spoliation of Truck Accident Evidence

If you’re involved in a truck accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. In New Jersey, that’s RAM Law, the team with experience in how to preserve evidence after a truck accident so you get the compensation you deserve. They navigate the legal process, gather and preserve evidence, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the entire process.

What Does Spoliation of Evidence Mean?

Spoliation of evidence refers to the destruction, alteration or concealment of evidence that’s relevant to a legal proceeding, investigation or dispute. Spoliation of truck accident evidence is a serious matter and can result in legal consequences for the party responsible. If evidence is intentionally destroyed or altered, it can lead to sanctions, fines or even criminal charges.

To ensure you get the best settlement following an accident with a truck in New Jersey, make RAM Law one of the first calls you make after you receive pertinent medical attention. They know how to preserve evidence after a truck accident to protect that evidence and prove spoliation of evidence if necessary. Contact the firm after your accident.

What Type of Evidence Needs to be Preserved in a Truck Accident?

In New Jersey, truck accident victims often are entitled to compensation for damages. To ensure you receive the remuneration you deserve, take measures for protection of evidence truck accidents may leave at the scene. Evidence to preserve after a truck accident includes:

• Police reports
• Medical records
• Photographs of the scene of the accident
• Witness statements
• Proof of the truck driver’s negligence

Take action if you believe evidence was mishandled or destroyed. Your RAM Law attorney takes extra steps to investigate and build a strong case on your behalf with the insurance company and trucking company for fair compensation for your losses.

What Can I Do if Evidence Is Tampered with or Destroyed?

If evidence was tampered with or destroyed after a truck accident, it can have a significant impact on any legal proceedings that may follow. Right after the accident, you may be in shock and trying to take care of your passengers and your vehicle at the scene, but do your best to tie up and verify all the details at the scene. Try to:

• Document everything. Take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles, tire tracks, injuries and any other relevant information.
• Contact your attorney. Speak with your RAM Law attorney as soon as possible to help you navigate the legal process.
• Notify the authorities. Let authorities know immediately if you believe evidence has been tampered with. They may be able to investigate the matter and determine who is responsible for destroying evidence.
• Collect any remaining evidence. If there’s any remaining evidence, such as witness statements or photographs, collect and preserve it. This evidence can support your case.
• Prepare for a legal battle. If evidence has been tampered with or destroyed, it’s more difficult to prove your case. Be prepared for a legal battle and work closely with your attorney to build a strong case.

Act quickly if you suspect evidence has been tampered with or destroyed after a truck accident. By taking the appropriate steps, you may be able to recover damages and hold those responsible accountable.

How Long Should I Keep Evidence Related to a Truck Accident?

It’s recommended that you keep all evidence related to a truck accident for as long as possible because it may be required in any potential legal proceedings, which could drag on for years. In New Jersey, keep evidence related to a truck accident for at least two years because the State has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. So you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

In general, however, it’s advisable to keep everything until any legal claims have been resolved. This evidence includes:

• Copies of police reports
• Witness statements and contact information for witnesses
• Ongoing medical records, including physical therapy
• Photographs or videos of the accident scene
• Any communication with insurance companies or truck driver attorneys

Contact RAM Law of New Jersey for guidance on how to preserve evidence after a truck accident and the specific requirements for preserving evidence in your case. The sooner you start working with your attorney for the protection of evidence in a truck accident, the better chance you have of avoiding spoliation of that vital evidence to prove your case and collect appropriate damages.