Understanding the Discovery Process in a Truck Accident Lawsuit - Laredo TX Attorneys

Laredo attracts many visitors, particularly during the city’s month-long Washington’s Birthday Celebration, honoring George Washington’s birthday. In addition to tourist traffic, Laredo’s busy port also puts many commercial vehicles on the roads. More trucks often mean more truck accidents, and this city sees more than its share of serious crashes in a state that leads the country in truck crash fatalities. Victims of these crashes often face mounting medical bills and other expenses as they recover from their injuries.

Legal steps to seek damages after a truck accident are complex and confusing, especially the comprehensive discovery process. The Laredo 18 wheeler accident attorneys at Carabin Shaw help accident victims navigate the discovery phase to create a clear picture of the accident and establish liability. Contact us 24/7 at 800-862-1260 to speak to a member of our team. We have English- and Spanish-speaking professionals available now to provide a free case review.

Discovery is a critical pre-trial procedure that helps each side build a strong case. This step in the truck accident legal process allows both parties to exchange information and evidence related to the accident that helps them formulate their legal strategies. Discovery is a lengthy, labor-intensive proceeding that can take many months to complete.

The different types of discovery might include:

• Depositions - sworn statements from witnesses
• Requests for Production - requests for specific documents or evidence
• Interrogatories - questions answered in writing and under oath
• Requests for Admissions - requests that the other party deny or admit specific facts about the case

A seasoned Laredo attorney's legal expertise is crucial for navigating the discovery process effectively. For example, your legal team should immediately send the trucking company a spoliation letter, requesting the company to preserve all evidence of your crash and set up depositions to create a clear picture of the accident. They will also prepare you for your deposition and other aspects of your case as necessary to ensure you understand the process and preserve the value of your case.

Many types of documents may be exchanged during the discovery process, including:

• Medical records and bills
• Pay stubs and repair receipts
• Police reports, photos, and surveillance videos
• Witness testimony
• Black box data from the truck
• Safety inspection and maintenance records
• Cell phone data
• Cargo manifests
• Hours of service logs

Trucking companies are not always forthcoming with these documents and often try to “lose” or destroy them before discovery begins. The spoliation letter is critical so your attorney can gather necessary evidence while it is available.

Parties involved in the discovery process may disagree on certain points, such as:

• Timing of discovery
• Relevance of requested information
• Whether requested information is privileged
• Production of document requests
• Questions during depositions

When a dispute arises, your Texas lawyer may go to the court to request a resolution. Because there are strict deadlines throughout the discovery process, the experience and expertise of your legal team are essential to keep your case on track.

Our experienced legal team will be invaluable during your discovery process, gathering all relevant evidence, such as driver logs, vehicle records, and accident reports. We will also conduct depositions effectively and prepare you for yours, so you perform well. In addition, we will keep track of deadlines to give you peace of mind throughout the process.

The statute of limitations for Texas truck accidents is two years, which means you don’t have time to waste if you’ve been injured in one of these crashes. Carabin Shaw offers our services on a contingency-fee-basis, so you don’t pay a dollar until you receive your settlement. Client reviews show how we help accident victims like you. Contact us toll-free now at 800-862-1260.

For more information:

• The Trucker
• Cornell Law
• Texas Trucking Law