A black box may provide data that determines fault in an 18-wheeler accident. The commercial truck accident lawyers at Haun Mena explain the crucial role that black boxes can play in winning your truck accident case.
Understanding the Role of Black Box Data in 18-Wheeler Accidents
Texas is a fault state for car accidents, including 18-wheeler truck accidents. To get compensation, you must prove that someone else is responsible for the accident; usually, for a truck accident, that means the trucking company.
The trucking company is unlikely to admit being at fault for an accident; you must prove your case with evidence. A black box may help you prove your case.
Let’s talk about:
- What an 18-wheeler black box is
- How it can help with your case
- Limitations and things to be aware of regarding black box information
- How to best use black box data for your claim
- Ways an 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer can help
What is an 18-wheeler black box?
An 18-wheeler black box is a device or software that records information about vehicle operations. It may track driver inputs, vehicle operations, autonomous vehicle response, and occupant information. The exact information gathered depends on the device type.
What to Know about the Role of Black Box Data in 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents
A Black Box Doesn’t Have Human Bias
Unlike humans, a black box doesn’t have subjective bias. As the black box records data, it doesn’t take a side when it comes to fault for a trucking accident. Generally, a black box can provide evidence without personal bias.
A Black Box Can’t Provide Context
Even though a black box can provide raw data, it can’t explain the circumstances surrounding the data. You may still need other evidence to fully explain what happened.
Don’t Rely on the Black Box Alone to Prove your Case
A black box is unlikely to provide everything that you need to prove your case. There may be important questions that are not answered by the black box information, or there may be contradicting evidence. You shouldn’t rely on the data recorder alone as you seek compensation.
Don’t Count on the Trucking Company to Hand Over the Black Box Information
It shouldn’t surprise you that trucking companies don’t like paying compensation; they’re not going to readily volunteer evidence that will work against them. You may need to file a formal legal claim and get a court order to access the information; an attorney can help you with this.
Work Quickly to Preserve the Black Box Data
Many data recorders overwrite themselves after a short period. In addition, the trucking company may want to destroy information quickly. There are things you can do to preserve 18-wheeler black box information, but you must work quickly. You can send a demand to preserve evidence; contact an attorney right away.
Types of 18-Wheeler Black Boxes
There are different types of 18-wheeler black boxes; each type records different information.
Event Data Recorder (EDR)
An event data recorder collects information for about five seconds before a collision. Records gathered may include vehicle operation and response as well as driver inputs and occupant activity.
An EDR may also be called a MVEDR (motor vehicle event data recorder).
Electronic Logging Device (ELD)
ELDs record driving hours and rest breaks. They track driver hours of service, to enforce mandatory rest breaks. Electronic logging devices are required for large commercial trucks. For this reason, they are common evidence in 18-wheeler accident cases.
Engine Control Modules (ECM)
The engine control module tracks engine function and adjusts it to improve vehicle performance. Fault codes may identify engine maintenance and operational failures.
ECMs are also called engine control units (ECU).
Telematics
Truck telematics systems monitor fleet operations including GPS tracking. Some telematics systems track vehicle speed, idling, unusual braking, and tire pressure. Trucking companies use telematics to monitor unsafe driver behavior and vehicle maintenance needs.
Integrated Vehicle-Based Safety Systems (IVBSS)
Integrated Vehicle-Based Safety Systems collect data in real time to assist drivers. While these systems exist to enhance driver safety, they may also provide relevant accident information.
Does every 18-wheeler record event data black box information?
No. U.S. law doesn’t require trucking companies to use detailed event data recorders. The only requirement is electronic logging devices in large, commercial trucks.
If you’re in an accident, you may be surprised to learn that the truck doesn’t have a detailed black box. Your passenger vehicle may have more recorded information than the truck.
Let Our Attorneys Help
When we represent you, our legal team can determine what black box information is available in your case.
What if the trucking company wants my black box vehicle information? Do I have to give it to them?
Only if there is a court order requiring you to. The Driver Privacy Act of 2015 prevents the intrusive release of black box information. The law makes black box information the property of the vehicle owner or lease.
If you have received a discovery demand for black box information, contact an 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer in Houston.
18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer in Houston
At Haun Mena, we are 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers in Houston. We can help with:
- Identifying black box data recorders in the 18-wheeler, and your vehicle
- Accessing the 18-wheeler data
- Accident reconstruction that can explain or support information from black boxes
- Understanding how to integrate black box information with other evidence
- Putting the trucking company on notice not to destroy evidence
- Handling your legal claim for compensation, including evidentiary issues involving black box information
- Overall management of your legal claim
Our lawyers know that black box data can play an important role in proving fault in an 18-wheeler accident. We understand how to gather and use this information as we pursue your compensation.
Talk to a Lawyer for 18-wheeler Accidents
Have you or a loved one been in an 18-wheeler accident? Are you wondering what role black box data may play in your case? Contact us to talk to a lawyer.
