Being involved in an accident with a truck in Gulfport is an incredibly frightening situation, as the sheer weight and size of the vehicle can cause significantly more severe injuries than a small car or even an SUV. If you believe that the driver who caused your accident was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it’s understandable that this might also cause you a lot of anger. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s going to be very important to gather as much evidence as possible to prove that the other driver was at fault and was under the influence so that you can collect the monetary compensation you’re entitled to. 

Steps to Take Prove The Truck Driver Was Under The Influence

If you have reason to believe that the truck driver who caused your accident was under the influence at the time, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible. Some of the most crucial steps you can take directly after the accident include the following:

Call The Police

After any motor vehicle accident in Gulfport, it’s a good idea to call the police and wait for them to arrive at the scene. This is particularly true if you believe the other driver was under the influence at the time of the crash. Once law enforcement arrives, make sure you tell them that you suspect the driver is under the influence. Then, they will be able to interview the truck driver and make observations about the driver. If the truck driver smells like alcohol, is slurring their speech, or is having difficulty standing up straight, this will be a clear indication that they are under the influence of something. A police officer will note this in their accident report, and will take steps to further evaluate the driver, and even arrest them if there is cause for it. 

Always request a copy of the police report, as it will contain many of the officer’s observations and notes, which might end up being incredibly helpful for your claim.

Speak With a Lawyer

Another important step you can take to prove that a truck driver was under the influence at the time of the crash is to speak with a personal injury lawyer. If a civil claim or an insurance claim is filed, a significant part of your lawyer’s job will be to gather evidence to show that someone else was responsible for the accident, which will allow you to collect as much financial compensation as possible. 

They can investigate the driver and try to determine where they were before the accident occurred, and if there are any witnesses that saw them drink alcohol or use an intoxicating substance. If the truck driver had a passenger in the vehicle with them, your lawyer can interview that person as well. In some cases, your lawyer may also be able to obtain video footage of the truck driver before the accident. 

For example, if they were in a restaurant, there might be a recording of it. If it turns out that the driver was in a restaurant, your lawyer can also attempt to obtain receipts to see what they ordered shortly before driving.

Search Social Media

Another step you and your lawyer can take is to browse the truck driver’s social media accounts. People often post about their meals, drinks, and day-to-day activities. It may sound like a long shot, but you could end up discovering a post from the truck driver about their pre-driving activities that involve alcohol or drug consumption. 

If you were in an accident with a truck driver that you believe was under the influence, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.