Preserving data from automatic onboard recording devices is important if you hope to use it as evidence in your truck accident claim. The information recorded on these devices can provide insight into how long the driver was behind the wheel and if this contributed in any way to the crash.
How to Preserve Data on Automatic On-Board Recording Devices
You can preserve data from these devices by immediately seeking legal counsel from accident attorneys in Peachtree City. The sooner you talk to an attorney, the sooner he or she can take steps to obtain this data and start building your case.
Although the FMCSA stipulates that truck drivers cannot change the data entered into the recording devices, some drivers or companies may do so anyway. The regulations are that even if legitimate changes need to be made, it can only be done by the trucking company.
Don’t Let the Trucking Company Falsify Records
Even then, the motor carrier is required to keep the original data and then provide an explanation for the changes. This helps prevent falsifying of records to avoid liability for an accident.
Your truck accident attorney may send a letter to the trucking company demanding that the data and all other evidence be preserved. A failure to comply with this request could lead to serious repercussions.
Truck accident evidence may include not only automatic on-board recording devices but other documentation. Securing all of this as soon as possible may help protect your claim.
Contacting Accident Attorneys in Peachtree City
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), injuries from commercial vehicle accidents went down from 64,668 in 2010 to 62,885 in 2011. While this is good news, it still doesn’t take away from the fact that many of these injuries are serious, disabling, or life-threatening.
We understand the devastating consequences of a truck crash. After an accident, contact an attorney at Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656. We will work hard to collect the evidence, such as automatic on-board recording devices, to demonstrate liability for the accident.