Truck accident injury claims are complicated. A serious crash should always be thoroughly and comprehensively investigated by an experienced attorney. Modern tractor-trailers are generally equipped with a “black box.” The data from the black box may provide a lot of insight into exactly how and why an accident happened. It is a key form of evidence. Here, our Columbia truck accident lawyer provides a guide to the role of black box data in claims in South Carolina.
What is a Truck’s Black Box?
A truck’s black box is a device installed in commercial vehicles to record information about their operation. As explained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you may also hear a black box referred to as an “event data recorder” or “EDR.” Along with other things, the devices capture data such as speed, braking, and steering angles, often critical in reconstructing events leading up to a collision or accident. The data can be extremely valuable for investigations.
An Overview of Black Box Data (Truck Accidents)
The black box data that you can get from a commercial truck may contain a wide range of different information. When you have access to the black box, you may be able to access any or all of the following relevant data:
- Speed and Acceleration: The black box records the truck’s speed and acceleration patterns before, during, and after an accident. The data can show whether the truck was speeding or if the driver attempted to slow down before the collision. Notably, investigators often use speed/acceleration information to assess if speed was a factor in the crash.
- Braking Information: When did the truck driver apply the brake? That is an important thing to know after a bad crash. The data indicates whether, when, and how forcefully the driver applied the brakes. A lack of braking data can suggest sudden obstacles or driver inattention. On the other hand, intense braking might indicate a panic stop.
- Steering Angle: The steering angle recorded by the black box shows how the driver was maneuvering the steering wheel before an accident. It helps in determining whether the driver was trying to swerve away from an obstacle or if improper steering contributed to the truck losing control. Analyzing steering data is key to many investigations.
- Engine Use and Status: Black boxes record data related to the engine’s operation, including idle times, engine speed, and even instances of engine malfunction. The information can indicate whether the truck was in proper working condition at the time of the accident or if engine-related issues may have played a role in the incident.
- GPS Location and Route History: Many modern black boxes are integrated with GPS technology, which records the truck’s route and location data. This can be particularly useful in verifying the driver’s route compliance, times of travel, and the exact location of an accident. GPS data is essential for logistical analysis. It can help paint a better picture.
Why it Matters: South Carolina is a Fault-Based Truck Accident State
A truck’s black box data can be very important for proving liability after a crash. Why does this matter so much? The reason is that South Carolina operates under a fault-based system for truck accidents. The party who is responsible for causing the accident is also liable for damages. Proving fault requires strong evidence, including things like black box data. The determination of fault directly influences compensation that can be recovered.
You May Need to Take Legal Action to Get the Black Box Data
How do you get the truck’s black box data after a crash? Unfortunately, the trucking company often will not willingly step forward and provide you with all of the relevant data. After a serious crash, you may need to take proactive steps to ensure that the trucking company preserves and turns over all of the relevant evidence and information, including the truck’s black box data.
Your South Carolina truck accident attorney can help. Among other things, your lawyer can file a court order to preserve and obtain the black box data as part of the discovery process in a legal case. It is crucial because it prevents the data from being tampered with or destroyed. Securing this information can be pivotal for proving liability in a truck accident case.
Be Proactive: Truck Accident Statute of Limitations
Truck accident claims are time-sensitive. Under South Carolina law (S.C. Code § 15-3-20), there is a three-year statute of limitations for truck accident victims. If you do not initiate a truck accident claim on time, you may miss out on your opportunity to take action at all. Do not miss out on your ability to get justice and financial compensation. Take a proactive approach: Speak to a Columbia, SC semi-truck accident attorney as soon as possible after a major collision.
Why Rely On South Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer Christopher R. Hart
Navigating the aftermath of a serious crash is never easy. Every accident requires a thorough investigation by a top-tier attorney. You need access to all relevant evidence—and that includes a truck’s black box data. With leadership in law and a history of client testimonials, Christopher R. Hart is a strong and aggressive advocate for justice. During your free, no-obligation initial consultation, we will answer your questions and develop a plan of action for your case.
Contact Our Columbia Commercial Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Hart Law, our Columbia truck accident lawyer puts victims and families first. You are not alone after a bad crash. It is our objective to help clients secure the absolute maximum compensation after a bad collision. If you have any questions about the role of black box data in a truck accident, we are here to help. Contact us right away for a free, no-obligation case review. With a law office in Columbia, our firm handles truck accident cases throughout the region in South Carolina.