A Law Firm That Understands How To Investigate Trucking Companies
If you’ve been hurt in a Vancouver, WA truck accident, Colin can help
If you were hurt in a Vancouver truck accident, you want to hold the people who caused the crash accountable. Many times, that’s the driver. But trucking company negligence could have also directly led to the crash. The Scott Law Firm, PLLC investigates negligent trucking companies and holds them accountable.
When there’s a truck accident, it’s important to gather evidence to find out what happened and build a strong case to file an injury claim or truck accident lawsuit. Trucking companies know this. That’s why they send their own investigators to the scene, often within hours. But they have no interest in sharing that evidence. Their job is to protect their own interests. Our job is to fight for you.
That’s why Vancouver truck accident attorney Colin Scott conducts his own investigation and, when appropriate, files suit. From loading docks to weigh stations, rest stops, inspection garages, police stations, logistics offices, and anywhere else there is information, Colin can personally obtain testimony from adverse parties and witnesses who possess information about what happened.
Important evidence in truck accident cases
Trucking companies maintain ownership of much of the important evidence that can reveal how and why you or a loved one was hit by a truck. Over time, this evidence can be lost or destroyed. That’s why it can be important to take quick action to preserve proof of negligent driving or trucking company negligence:
- Hours of Service (HOS) Logs: There are federal regulations that limit the number of hours a truck driver can spend on the road. Regulations also require drivers to take breaks. Colin can seek access to HOS data, often kept in electronic logging devices. Obtaining this information can sometimes show that drivers who exceed the hours set by federal law may have been trying to keep an unrealistic delivery schedule given to them by the company. It can also be evidence of driver fatigue.
- Maintenance Records: Trucking companies have a responsibility to regularly maintain their trucks and repair any problems. These records can tell us if they met this responsibility. Former trucking company employees can also be a reliable source of information when it comes to their former employer’s track record with regard to maintaining vehicles.
- “Black Box” Data: Event data recorders, or electronic control modules, are the truck’s “black box.” They can provide important information about the operation of the truck just before the crash – such as speeding, braking and other factors.
- Employment and Supervision Records: Trucking companies also have a responsibility to hire qualified drivers. These records can indicate whether the company checked into the driver’s background or if there were any safety issues reported (such as prior accidents, moving violations, or drug abuse).
These are just a few examples of the types of unique evidence that can be available in Washington truck accident cases. Vancouver truck accident attorney Colin Scott understands the time restrictions and stalling techniques used by trucking companies to fight claims.
We fight for the best possible outcome
Some of the documents we typically seek in our truck accident investigations include police reports and medical records. Colin can review these documents and identify witnesses who can provide information about the crash. If needed, he can also hire one or more consultants or experts who can help explain how the crash happened.
Our firm strives to build a strong case on behalf of every client we represent. If successful, we can approach insurance companies with this information and argue it is in their best interests to negotiate a settlement prior to incurring litigation costs.
We will pursue all available legal options on your behalf
Can you sue a trucking company after a crash? The short answer is yes, but you should seek advice from a qualified trucking accident attorney to identify whether a truck accident lawsuit will be necessary. Attorney Colin Scott can often negotiate for the compensation you deserve after filing a claim. However, if the insurance company won’t make you a fair settlement offer, Colin is ready to file suit for his clients.
Any proposed resolution requires the client’s consent. We will never accept or reject a settlement offer without first receiving our client’s permission.
Colin is dedicated to helping truck accident victims in the Vancouver, WA area recover the financial compensation they deserve. If you were injured by a negligent truck driver in a wreck with a semi, big rig, or tractor-trailer, learn more about how a Vancouver truck accident attorney can help you. Contact us online or call 360-718-3640 to schedule a free consultation. Colin can review the details of your accident and go over your legal options.