Vehicle Data Recorders – a Personal Injury Attorney’s Secret Weapon
In the aftermath of car accidents, determining fault can be challenging, especially when there are no independent witnesses to corroborate either party’s version of events. This can lead to a “he said, she said” scenario, where each driver blames the other for the accident. However, the experienced attorneys at our law firm have a secret weapon that can often tip the scales in their clients’ favor: Vehicle Data Recorders, also known as Event Data Recorders (EDRs).
What is a Vehicle Data Recorder/EDR?
An EDR, often unknown to most car or truck owners until they are involved in an accident, functions similarly to an airplane’s black box. It records critical vehicle data leading up to the moment of a crash. This modern technology, now standard in the majority of new vehicles, serves as an electronic eyewitness that doesn’t forget or get confused. The 5-star rated personal injury attorneys at Becker Franklin Rovang are adept at retrieving and interpreting this data to support their clients’ claims and reconstruct the accident with precision.
The Specific Role of EDRs in Car or Truck Accident Analysis
EDRs are designed to activate only during specific “events” that are indicative of a crash, such as the deployment of airbags or a sudden, significant change in speed. They are not constantly monitoring the driver’s behavior or the vehicle’s performance. Instead, they spring into action when an event occurs, capturing vital information that can include:
- The vehicle’s speed and direction at the time of the crash.
- The actions taken by the driver, such as steering, braking, and acceleration.
- The status of the vehicle’s safety systems, including seatbelt usage and airbag deployment.
How EDRs Can Make a Difference in Personal Injury Cases
The attorneys at Becker Franklin Rovang have a track record of leveraging EDR data to build compelling cases for their clients. For instance, in one case, EDR data proved that their client had come to a complete stop at a stop sign before proceeding through an intersection, contradicting the other driver’s claim of speeding. In another case, EDR data revealed that a driver who rear-ended their client was traveling over the speed limit and failed to brake until moments before the collision, indicating a lack of attention to the road.
The Urgency of Preserving EDR Data
Securing EDR data can be time-sensitive, particularly if the vehicle is totaled and at risk of being sent to a salvage yard. In cases where liability is contested or the stakes are high, preserving this data can be critical to the outcome of the case. The attorneys at Becker Franklin Rovang are well-versed in the steps necessary to ensure that this valuable evidence is not lost.
If you’ve been involved in a vehicle accident and are facing disputes over liability or the extent of your injuries, the experienced legal team at Becker Franklin Rovang is here to assist you. Understanding the importance of EDR data, they are committed to thorough investigation and analysis to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
For a consultation and to learn more about how Becker Franklin Rovang can help you navigate the complexities of your personal injury claim, contact their office today. With their expertise in harnessing the power of EDR data, they stand ready to advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About EDRs and Their Role in Personal Injury Cases
Q: What is a Vehicle Data or Event Data Recorder (EDR)?
A: An EDR is a device installed in vehicles that records technical vehicle and occupant information for a brief period of time (seconds, not minutes) before, during, and after a crash. It’s similar to the black box found in airplanes and is often used to provide crucial information in the event of an accident.
Q: What kind of data does an EDR record?
A: EDRs can record a variety of data, including but not limited to, the vehicle’s speed, acceleration/deceleration, engine throttle position, brake application, seatbelt usage, airbag deployment, and steering angle.
Q: How can EDR data be helpful in a personal injury case?
A: EDR data can provide objective, unbiased information about the circumstances leading up to and during a crash. This can help personal injury attorneys establish facts such as the speed of the vehicles, whether the brakes were applied, and the severity of the impact, which can be crucial in determining liability and the extent of injuries.
Q: Can EDR data be used as evidence in court?
A: Yes, EDR data is increasingly being used as evidence in court to support or refute claims in personal injury cases. However, the admissibility of EDR data can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case.
Q: How is EDR data retrieved?
A: EDR data is typically retrieved using specialized equipment and software that can interface with the vehicle’s diagnostic port. In many cases, this requires the expertise of a forensic engineer or a trained technician.
Q: Are there any privacy concerns associated with EDRs?
A: Yes, there are privacy concerns related to EDRs, as they record information about the vehicle’s operation and occupants’ behavior. Different jurisdictions have different laws regarding who owns the data and how it can be accessed and used.
Q: Is it necessary to have an attorney to access and use EDR data in a personal injury case?
A: While it’s not strictly necessary to have an attorney, having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can be extremely beneficial. They can help ensure that the data is retrieved properly, interpreted correctly, and used effectively to support your case.
Q: What should I do if I’m involved in an accident and believe EDR data could be important for my case?
A: If you’re involved in an accident, it’s important to notify your attorney as soon as possible. They can take steps to preserve the EDR data before it’s overwritten or the vehicle is repaired or salvaged, which can be crucial for your case.