Car’s Black Box Data Recorder

You may have heard of an airplane’s black box or a semi-truck’s black box, but did you know that many new cars also have event data recorders (EDRs), and the information they record is commonly used in legal claims. Almost all new vehicles have some type of data recorder. Those who elect to track and report vehicle conditions, both directly through the car or through mobile apps, may also be collecting information that can impact a personal injury claim.

Car Data Recorder History

The first basic data recorders were added to cars in the 1970s when airbags were first added to vehicles. By 2005, more than half of all new cars had some type of event data recorder tied to their airbag system. In 2012, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ruled that event data records in cars needed to be standardized.

What Type of Information is Stored in the Recorder?

Not only can EDRs be essential to help determine the cause of an accident, but the NHTSA has concluded that the presence of EDRs has led to a 30% reduction in accidents by modifying driver behavior. Vehicle data recorders and cell phone records can now track time, speed, location, road conditions, braking force, travel route, any erratic driving patterns, texting and calls made or received, time of call, and so much more. All of this information can be used for or against your claim.

Car and Phone Data Recorder EvidenceCar and Phone EDRs can be an essential element that makes or breaks your accident personal injury case. If you or someone you know has suffered personal injury in an accident, we can help. Contact Saladino & Schaaf today or call us at 270-444-0406 (Paducah, KY) or 270-753-1529 (Murray, KY) to schedule a free case review. You may be entitled to a significant settlement for your injuries, but you must act quickly. There are time limits on legal action.