Black boxes are pieces of equipment that record a vehicle’s performance and conditions before, during, and after an accident. These event data recorders (EDRs) are not only found in aircraft. All new cars since 2014 have them, too.
Black box data proves instrumental in many plane accidents, and the same is true for motor vehicle crashes. If you get hit by a car with a black box, its data can prove the driver’s negligence. In turn, if someone accuses you of causing a crash, your black box can help prove otherwise.
What data does a black box record?
Most black box models record at least the basic information, including but not limited to:
- Vehicle speed, acceleration and deceleration
- Steering wheel input and any sudden changes in direction
- How far the accelerator pedal was pressed
- Whether and when the brakes were applied and how hard
- Seat belt usage for the driver and passengers
- If the air bags were deployed
However, black boxes only work if the vehicle is on. They cannot function if the ignition is off and there is no battery power.
How can black box data affect your case?
Investigators can use black box data to recreate the accident and find out who is responsible for the crash.
Suppose you are involved in a rear-end collision, and the rear driver accuses you of suddenly braking. Black box data can reveal both cars’ speed and braking activity at the time of the accident. If your data shows you did not press the brake, it can disprove the other driver’s claim.
On the other hand, their car’s black box may show that they were speeding, which is what caused the accident.
Who can access black box data?
EDRs require special equipment for data retrieval. Furthermore, you need the driver’s consent to download the data. You can allow the police or your insurance company to access your black box in case of a crash.
But what if you need to access another car’s black box? Not all drivers will surrender it willingly, especially if they are at fault for a crash.
In such cases, seeking legal guidance can be imperative. An experienced attorney can help obtain a court order to get the evidence you need for a personal injury claim.