Quick Answer:⚡
If a trucking company destroys or hides evidence after a Michigan crash, courts can issue sanctions and allow a jury to presume the missing proof would have hurt the defense. A prompt preservation letter and swift legal action help secure logs, black box data, and company records before they disappear.
- Electronic data: ELD and ECM black box data, GPS, dashcam video, and post crash telematics.
- Driver records: Hours of service logs, qualification file, prior violations, and post accident drug and alcohol testing.
- Vehicle and maintenance: Inspection reports, repair orders, work logs, and defect notices.
- Cargo and dispatch: Bills of lading, weight tickets, route and dispatch notes, and delivery times.
Michigan courts can impose remedies for spoliation, including adverse inferences, exclusion of defense arguments, and monetary sanctions. The key is to act fast. Your attorney can send a preservation letter, move to compel production, and request protective orders to prevent further loss. For a deeper look at the rules that govern recordkeeping and safety, review our guide to Michigan truck accident laws and regulations.
âś… This answer was prepared and reviewed by Attorney Matthew R. Clark, managing partner at The Clark Law Office. He regularly secures ELD logs, black box data, and company records in Mid Michigan trucking cases where key evidence is at risk of being lost.
Next Step
Evidence can vanish quickly after a serious truck crash. If you suspect missing logs, video, or maintenance records, get legal help immediately so preservation steps can begin. Contact The Clark Law Office for a free consultation. đź’¬ Reliable legal advice for truck crash victims can protect your right to fair compensation.