The Role of Black Box Data in Truck Accident Investigations

One of the most important pieces of evidence in a truck accident investigation is the truck’s black box. This device provides information and insight into the truck driver’s every move, allowing attorneys, insurance companies, juries, and judges to learn what may have happened, who is at fault, and whether the crash was preventable. When you consult with a lawyer about a complex truck accident, one of the first moves they will likely make is requesting the truck driver’s black box data.

What is black box data from a truck?

A black box, also referred to as an event data recorder, is a device that records certain aspects of a commercial truck’s trip. For example, it may record the speed that the driver maintained, when they hit the brakes, the engine’s RPM, whether a seat belt was in use, any acceleration or deceleration, tire pressure, what time the crash occurred, and where the driver was at certain times based on the GPS. This data provides an in-depth look at what was happening before and during a truck accident, which can serve as valuable evidence in the investigation and legal process.

Black box data is considered to be unbiased evidence regarding a truck accident. Technically, this data cannot have a human opinion or side with either party; its only job is to help people gain an understanding of the events leading up to and during the crash. In addition, black box data is almost always accurate when it comes to providing information about the truck’s operations.

When investigators refer to the black box data, they are able to create a clear picture of the truck accident. Instead of only forming theories about what may have transpired, the black box data can provide factual information and details regarding the commercial truck’s working parts and the truck driver’s actions.

For example, an investigator may initially believe that the truck driver made a careless mistake, which caused them to crash into the back of another person’s vehicle. However, after looking at the black box data, it may become obvious that the truck had a brake failure, resulting in the collision. As a result, black box data is a very useful tool in identifying information in truck accidents, determining what caused the accidents, and helping assign fault.

How can black box data help my truck accident case in Kansas City, MO?

Black box data can tremendously help your truck accident case. The reason for this is that this data is usually accurate and solid evidence, which can help prove cause and liability. By providing details about the truck driver’s speed, acceleration, braking, and other driving maneuvers, you can confirm your side of the story and disprove the opposing team’s. You can also potentially use black box data to show that the truck driver violated certain laws or regulations, acted negligently, or that another party’s negligence contributed to the crash.

How do I request a truck driver’s black box data for my case?

While black box data may sound like a beneficial tool for your case, it is important to know that obtaining this data can be challenging. Therefore, it is recommended that you speak with a truck accident attorney about how to request this information as soon as possible. Sometimes, technical issues emerge, meaning that your attorney may need to hire a specialist who knows how to remove the data from the truck to use for your case. In addition, the trucking company is most likely the owner of the black box data, which means that there is a strong possibility that they will put up a fight to prevent you from accessing this information, especially if they know that it could put them at fault for the accident.

However, if you have retained a truck accident lawyer, they are already aware of the challenges that may arise to keep you from accessing this important data. They have the tools and resources to help you successfully overcome any technical or legal roadblocks and can demand the data you need to build a convincing case and hold the responsible parties accountable.

What if I cannot get the black box data?

Even without the black box date, you can demonstrate that you were injured and that the truck driver was at fault. Black box data is sometimes lost or destroyed, either accidentally or intentionally. In such cases, other evidence, such as eyewitness accounts, physical evidence, and any other available proof, can help you build your claim. Your attorney can help you identify evidence and work with experts if you need additional support for your claim.

If you or a family member recently suffered injuries in a truck accident, please do not hesitate to reach out to Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys at your earliest convenience. Our Kansas City, MO, truck accident lawyers know and understand how powerful black box data is in these types of cases, which is why we do everything we can to help you obtain this information and use it to protect your legal rights. Call our office or submit our contact form to schedule a free case evaluation and find out why we are Kansas City’s Favorite Law Firm today. We are available any time at our main office in Kansas City, MO. You can also schedule an appointment at one of our other locations in Lee’s Summit, Parkville, and St. Joseph (MO); Olathe, Kansas City, and Overland Park (KS) if you prefer.