What Questions Should I Ask a Truck Accident Witness?

Posted on Wednesday, November 10th, 2021 at 5:22 pm    

commercial truck accidentIt’s scary for anyone to find themselves involved in a collision with a commercial truck. When a large truck and small car collide, the smaller vehicle occupants typically sustain more severe injuries than the truck driver. Even if you know the truck driver is responsible for causing the crash, stating that to the investigating officer at the scene or insurance company isn’t enough. You need relevant evidence to back up your claim.

Your medical records, a copy of the police report, traffic camera footage, and other evidence could help you prove fault after a truck accident. However, some evidence goes missing or becomes damaged. Additionally, you might not locate the documentation you need to show what happened. That’s where a credible witness can benefit your case.

Eyewitness statements are substantial evidence you can use to prove someone else’s actions contributed to a car crash. You could tell the insurance company your version of events, but you might not achieve the outcome you want without anyone to back up your story. If the truck driver tells a different story and you can’t find anyone to support your claim, you could end up without the money you’re owed.

Below are some questions you should ask witnesses after getting hurt in an accident involving a commercial truck. Obtaining all the necessary details could improve your chance of securing the maximum compensation you need to pay your medical bills so you can heal your injuries. If you have pressing questions about your case, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Can You Explain What You Saw Before the Crash Occurred?

truck accident witnessAsk the witness to tell you in their own words what happened in the moments before the accident. If you ask specific questions, such as whether they saw the truck driver swerve into your lane, it could influence their memory. You need to ensure the details they provide are factual.

Listen closely to what they tell you and write down everything, if possible. If they saw the same things you did prior to the crash, they could help back up your claim about what happened.

Can You Go Into More Detail About the Accident?

After the witness gives you an overall picture of what they saw, ask detailed questions to fill in any blanks for a complete picture of the events leading up to the accident. The questions you could ask include:

  • What time did the accident happen?
  • Did you see what the truck driver was doing prior to the collision?
  • Where were you at the time of the accident?
  • When did you notice what had happened?
  • Was anyone with you who also witnessed the crash?
  • Did you hear the truck driver say anything to anyone after the accident?
  • Did you see the locations of the vehicles and the directions they were traveling right before the accident?

What Were You Doing Prior to the Accident?

You need to know what the witness was doing. If someone says they were texting on their cell phone when they heard a loud crash, they likely didn’t see the initial impact. Although the witness could describe what they saw in the immediate aftermath of the accident, they can’t provide information about the truck driver’s actions before the collision.

Finding someone who saw everything leading up to the accident and in the moments after could benefit your case if you choose to pursue compensation from the truck driver. However, even if you find multiple witnesses who saw fragments of what happened, you can put their stories together to fill in any blanks.

What Did You Do After You Saw the Crash?

Sometimes, witnesses don’t hesitate to help accident victims. They might call 911 or check on the occupants of the vehicles to find out if anyone needs medical attention. Others might take pictures or videos of the accident scene.

If you ask witnesses about their actions following the crash, you could learn about evidence they have that you can use in your insurance claim. Ask if they wouldn’t mind sharing copies of the photos they took or any video footage they caught of the collision. This type of evidence can strengthen your case and help prove the truck driver caused your injuries. Contact us today.

Can I Have Your Phone Number?

You should ask all witnesses you find for their names and contact information. They can’t provide statements to the insurance company unless you have a way to reach them.

Speak to an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

If you suffered injuries in an accident due to the truck driver or trucking company’s negligent actions, do not hesitate to call the Sacramento truck accident attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm. We understand the trauma of getting hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault. It’s unexpected and disrupts your entire life. You can depend on us to handle every step of the process to recover the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.

Call us today at (916) 999-9000, or reach out to us online for a free consultation.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
Quote

I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
Quote

I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
Quote

I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
Quote

The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
Quote

I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
Quote

Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
Quote

No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
Quote

I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Matt H. Testimonial
Quote

I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
Quote

Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Lendzey Garcia
Quote

I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!