Most commercial trucks in the United States are required to have an electronic logging device, or “black box.” ELDs track various metrics about vehicle performance and the truck driver’s behavior behind the wheel. After a truck accident, black box data is often analyzed by the attorneys for both the claimant and the defense to identify potential causes of the crash and instances of negligence. Read on to learn more about how “Black Box” data may strengthen your truck accident claim.
Below are a few examples of how black box data might strengthen a truck accident claim:
1. Proving the Trucker Violated the Hours of Service Regulations
Truck drivers are prohibited from staying behind the wheel for an excessive number of consecutive hours without breaks. There are also limitations on the number of hours a trucker can drive within specific timeframes. These restrictions are outlined in the Hours of Service Regulations. Black box data might show that the vehicle had been on the road for longer than allowed by law.
2. Proving Another Traffic Infraction
Black box data might show that the truck driver was breaking the speed limit just before the accident. It might also show that the brakes were not applied, which could indicate that the trucker fell asleep while driving.
Electronic logging devices usually track tire pressure. Tire issues cause tens of thousands of truck accidents each year, resulting in thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths. If the ELD shows that the tire’s pressure was too low or too high, its data might be used to support your claim.
Other Evidence of Liability in a Truck Accident Case
The electronic logging device is just one source of evidence your attorney might use to prove liability. Other valuable evidence may include:
- Photos and Video Footage: Pictures and videos of the crash scene might be reviewed by your legal team and an accident reconstruction expert to discern what happened. If a dashcam or surveillance system recorded the incident, its footage might also serve as valuable evidence of fault.
- Expert Witness Deposition: The deposition of an accident reconstruction expert might help your attorney prove liability. If an auto part defect played a role, an auto part specialist might also be deposed.
- Eyewitness Deposition: People who saw the accident may be able to provide deposition that corroborates your version of events.
- Vehicle Maintenance Records: If negligent vehicle maintenance was a contributing factor, the motor carrier’s maintenance records might strengthen your claim.
- The Motor Carrier’s Operating, Hiring, and Training Procedures: Some truck accidents can be traced back to negligent operating, hiring, and training procedures. In these cases, the motor carrier may be held liable for damages.
Call 713-893-8808 for a Free Consultation with a Houston Truck Accident Attorney
Chelsie King Garza, P.C. has many years of experience helping truck accident victims and their families fight for the compensation they deserve. Chelsie can make sure your claim accounts for all the damages you may be owed, and if the opposing party refuses to settle, she will relish the opportunity to litigate your case and proceed to trial if necessary. For a free consultation, contact us online or call 713-893-8808.
