A. Immediate Steps
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Elena Vance, J.D.
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7 min read
The 48-Hour Spoliation Letter: Preserving Telematics, Logbooks, and Dashcam Footage
Without an immediate formal spoliation notice, crucial digital evidence like ECM engine logs, dispatch texts, and inward-facing cab cameras will be destroyed. Review our complete legal preservation checklist.
Key Legal Takeaways
- A spoliation letter puts the carrier, driver, and their insurers on formal legal notice of anticipated litigation.
- Destruction of evidence after notice enables Texas courts to issue adverse inference jury instructions.
- Key items include ECM data, Qualcomm/Omnitracs messaging, driver cell records, and maintenance logs.
What Must Be Included in a Commercial Spoliation Letter?
The notice must specify the exact vehicle identification number (VIN), tractor and trailer numbers, driver name, crash location, and a comprehensive list of digital and mechanical artifacts to freeze immediately.