Glossary Term
Spoliation
The destruction, alteration, or failure to preserve evidence that is relevant to foreseeable litigation. In truck accident cases, spoliation most commonly refers to a carrier's failure to retain ELD records, dashcam footage, maintenance logs, or driver qualification files after a crash. A spoliation letter — sent immediately after a crash — formally notifies the carrier of the duty to preserve evidence. Texas courts may impose sanctions, including adverse jury instructions, when a party destroys relevant evidence.