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How Can Black Box Data Strengthen My Truck Accident Claim?

Black Box Data Can Strengthen Your Truck Accident Claim

If you intend to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim following a truck wreck , you will need strong evidence to prove liability and damages. There are many kinds of evidence your truck accident attorney may use to prove liability including:

  • Photographs of the scene;
    How Can Black Box Data Strengthen My Truck Accident Claim?

    “Black Box” ECM Engine unit from Cummins

  • The driver’s logbook or electronic logging data;
  • Dashcam footage;
  • Eyewitness testimony;
  • The police report;
  • Surveillance footage;
  • Toxicology test results; and
  • Data from the truck’s event data recorder, or “black box.”

Black boxes are electronic devices that record information related to the operation of a vehicle. They can provide evidence of speeding, Hours of Service violations, and a variety of other forms of negligence. Black box is a generic name for electronic control modules (ECM) and other eletronic devices that capture data about the operation of the vehicle.

It is important to obtain black box data and other evidence right away so your case is as strong as possible. Time is also critical because, if not preserved properly, the information on the black box could be lost or erased.  Having the black box data heading into settlement negotions or trial can make a significant impact on your case. A Missouri truck accident attorney from Gump & Faiella can gather this evidence and take other steps to strengthen your claim such as arranging expert witness testimony.

We represent clients in Missouri and surrounding states who have been injured in truck crashes.  Call 800-264-3455 to schedule a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer.

What Types of Data Do Black Boxes Capture?

According to Congressional Research Service , event data recorders capture all kinds of operational information including:

  • Speed and rate of acceleration;
  • Brake application;
  • Accelerator application;
  • Seat belt use;
  • Airbag deployment details; and
  • Tire pressure.

This information may strengthen your truck accident claim by confirming what happened immediately before, during, and after your crash. Depending on the circumstances, black box data may prove that a trucker was:

Such data could prove incredibly valuable and help you secure the compensation you deserve; however, obtaining black box data can be challenging. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures , 17 states have already enacted laws protecting black box data as the property of the vehicle owner. Although Missouri is not one of them, you could still run into hurdles when attempting to gather proof of liability following a truck crash. Act now to protect your rights.

Our Missouri Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help You Obtain Black Box Data, Call Now 800-264-3455

There is no guarantee that the vehicle that struck you had a working black box, but if it did, a personal injury attorneys from Gump & Faiella can help you obtain the data it recorded. Depending on the circumstances, local law enforcement personnel may also be able to help. If the motor carrier is being especially protective of the data—which could indicate just how valuable it is to your claim—a protective order can ensure the data is preserved, and a subpoena can help your attorney access it.

Discuss Your Case with a Truck Accident Lawyer in Missouri Today!

  If you were seriously hurt or lost a loved one in a truck crash, contact Gump & Faiella to discuss your case. We have a reputation for tough litigation and a strategy for winning substantial settlements and verdicts. Call 800-264-3455 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with an injury lawyer in Moberly.

 

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