Trucking accidents can be devastating and the victims of these accidents can sustain life-altering
injuries or even be killed. When it comes to proving
liability in these accidents, there are many factors that can contribute to the
cause of the accident. Determining who is at fault can be an enormous
undertaking, and the evidence to sort through can be complicated. One
of the forms of evidence commonly examined is the on-board data recorder
carried by most trucks.
Electronic on-board recorders, sometimes known as “black boxes,”
are devices that record and store the events before, during, and after
an accident. This information can be used by accident investigators to
understand the circumstances that lead to an accident. A skilled trucking
accident attorney can help you get access to this data to use it in your
accident claim.
Black boxes record data regarding:
- Engine configuration and settings
- Last stop
- Incidents, including sudden braking, rapid acceleration, or a quick stop
- Engine use
- Trip reports, such as fuel economy, idle time, and speeding
- Diagnostic trouble codes
- Stability control events, such as preventing skidding
- Crash acceleration information
This information can be used to help reconstruct the events leading up
to and the events during a crash. For investigators, the information recorded
by these devices can be valuable as part of an investigation. The information
contained on black boxes must be accessed by a trained automotive technician,
using the correct diagnostic software.
The evidence recorded by electronic on-board recorders are a tool for recreating
the accident, similar to skid marks and vehicle damage. When paired with
additional evidence, this data can help paint a clearer picture of the
accident. It commonly is used in truck crash reconstructions, which will analyze:
- Vehicle movement
- Vehicle speed
- Impact angles
- Time-distance relationships between the vehicles
This data shouldn’t be considered alone since there are hundreds
of factors that can influence the data. Without the context of other crash
information, the data can portray an inaccurate account of the accident.
When these other factors are included, the data can help investigators
recreated the accident and help determine the liability for the accident.
An experienced trucking accident lawyer can help you access the information
from an electronic on-board recorder and can push to have the data examined
as part of the investigation. Fighting for compensation in a trucking
accident can be difficult, but
your attorney will advocate for your needs.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you should contact our
Long Island truck accident lawyers. Our team at
Gruenberg Kelly Della offers the experienced legal representation and personalized client service
you deserve.
Contact our offices today to schedule a
free initial consultation.