Black box data in Kentucky truck accidents can be some of the most persuasive evidence available to injured victims. Jurors tend to place significant weight on objective digital information, such as video and audio recordings, because these forms of evidence are perceived as more reliable than a witness’ recollection. Most modern courtrooms use high-definition screens, and jurors expect to see clear, compelling visuals and hear accurate audio when evaluating fault in a truck accident.
Because black box data can be so decisive, a personal injury lawyer should have a thorough understanding of how this evidence works, how to obtain it, and how to present it in court. Many victims of Kentucky truck accidents suffer catastrophic injuries, such as severe burns or traumatic head injuries. These individuals rely on strong evidence to pursue the compensation needed to cover medical bills, lost income, and long-term care.
Burden of Proof in Civil Court
Before examining the role of black box data in Kentucky truck accidents, it is helpful to understand the burden of proof in civil cases.
In a civil case, the burden of proof is a preponderance of the evidence, which means more likely than not. This standard is much lower than the proof required in criminal court. To meet this burden, a lawyer generally needs to establish that the vehicle owner likely had control of the vehicle at the time of the collision. For example, if no one else had access to the keys, it becomes more likely than not that the owner was the driver. This lower standard illustrates why black box data becomes so powerful once a lawyer gains access to it.
Authenticating Digital Evidence
Although black box data in Kentucky truck accidents is often persuasive, an injury lawyer cannot present the information to the jury without laying the proper foundation. Digital evidence must be authenticated. A witness must testify that the device, whether it is a black box, camera, or electronic recorder, was operating correctly at the relevant time.
This testimony ensures the evidence is accurate and reliable. A well-prepared lawyer may further strengthen authentication by introducing supporting materials such as maintenance records, repair logs, or calibration documents. These extra layers of proof demonstrate that the device is functioning properly and the data it recorded is trustworthy.
Event Data Recorder
The Event Data Recorder (EDR) is one of the most important black box systems in truck accident cases. Many commercial and private vehicles are equipped with EDRs. Depending on the truck’s make and model, these devices record information such as:
- Vehicle speed
- Steering angle
- Brake application
- Engine RPM
Each individual data point may not prove much on its own. But when combined with the preponderance standard, black box data can become highly persuasive evidence. Taken together, these data points can help form a complete picture of what happened in the moments leading up to the collision.
EDRs are designed to withstand significant physical damage. Even when a truck is heavily damaged or destroyed, the black box often remains intact. But this is only true if the device is preserved. Insurance companies frequently move quickly to destroy damaged vehicles. Once the vehicle is gone, the EDR is gone as well. To prevent this outcome, a personal injury lawyer may send a spoliation letter. This letter creates a legal duty for the insurance company to preserve all physical evidence, including the EDR.
EDRs are complex systems, and cannot be inspected with basic tools. Proper analysis requires specialized equipment and trained experts.
Electronic Logging Device
The Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is another form of black box data in Kentucky truck accidents. ELDs are important in cases involving fatigued or overworked truck drivers. Federal trucking regulations have changed repeatedly since 2020, loosening Hours of Service rules and allowing drivers to spend longer periods on the road.
Fatigue affects the body in a way that is similar to alcohol. Driving after seventeen consecutive wakeful hours resembles driving with a 0.05 BAC. For commercial drivers in Kentucky, that is above the legal limit.
ELDs connect directly to a truck’s ignition system. Whenever the engine is running, the ELD records the driver’s hours of service. This direct link can help create strong evidence in drowsy driver cases, often proving that a trucker exceeded allowable limits or attempted to manipulate paperwork to hide violations.
Accessing this data involves legal hurdles. Kentucky has strong vehicle information privacy laws. Only the vehicle owner or an authorized agent may access the information stored in a black box. As a result, a lawyer typically must obtain a court order to access and download ELD data.
Contact the Experienced Lawyers at Saladino & Schaaf, PLLC
Black box data in Kentucky truck accidents is some of the most persuasive evidence available in modern litigation. EDR and ELD information can establish speed, braking, driver fatigue, and other critical details. However, this evidence is only available when properly preserved and lawfully accessed.
If you were injured in a truck accident, contact us today. Your consultation is always free. Call (270) 444-0406 (Paducah) or (270) 753-1529 (Murray). Our attorneys represent clients throughout McCracken County and nearby communities. Our offices are conveniently located in Paducah and Murray.