There are many cases in an automobile accident wherein it is difficult to identify which party is at fault for the crash. Oftentimes, police reports and witness statements are used to establish fault. However, many of these witness reports are filled with inaccuracies about what actually occurred. This is where an event data recorder (EDR) becomes crucial.
In this blog, we will discuss:
- What is an event data recorder?
- Do all vehicles have an EDR?
- How can an EDR help a personal injury case?
- What can a personal injury lawyer do for you?
What is an EDR?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines an event data recorder as a device installed in motor vehicles used to record technical vehicle and occupant information for a brief period of time before, during, and after a crash event.
An EDR may record pre-crash data, such as vehicle dynamics and system status, driver inputs, vehicle crash signature, restraint usage/deployment status, and post-crash data (ex. the activation of an automatic collision notification (ACN) system).
EDRs can vary in complexity in terms of their design, scope, and reach. They can be a powerful tool for improving safety on roads, as they can provide invaluable information on the causes of collisions. This data can help law enforcement by providing insight into crash specifics that could otherwise go unnoticed. By using this data, it is possible to address specific factors of an accident more.
EDRs can be a powerful tool for improving safety on roads, as they can provide invaluable information on the causes of collisions.
An EDR does not continually track data. Instead, it records particular events, like airbag deployment or drastic speed changes. When triggered, the device will document information including (though not limited to):
- Safety belt status
- Brake application
- Ignition cycle
- Airbag deployment
- Time period of airbag deployment
- Seat track position
- Steering wheel angle
- Engine throttle
- Engine RPM
- Vehicle speed
- Occupant position classification
- Occupant size classification
- Number of crash event
- Crash time
- Vehicle roll angle
Do All Vehicles Have an EDR?
The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that 95% of new vehicles have an EDR. However, EDRs are not legally mandated for all vehicles.
Since 2005, many auto manufacturers have been including information in the vehicle owner’s manual specifying whether or not an EDR has been installed in that particular vehicle. This is usually the most reliable way to determine if such a device is present.
How Can An Event Data Recorder Help a Personal Injury Case?
Event Data Recorders provide a source of information in legal disputes, as the data collected records events in real-time. This evidence can have an influential effect on personal injury claim proceedings.
When multiple vehicles with event data recorders are involved in crash-like events, it is more likely that the data retrieved from their onboard event data records will be consistent. This provides a significant advantage when searching for evidence or analyzing factors of your accident claim.
In certain instances, the information collected from an EDR may not be accepted as valid evidence in an accident claim due to technical malfunctions such as file corruption, incomplete recordings, or damage incurred during the accident.
Although event data records can be helpful and offer details of a crash that may not be readily available, EDRs are not error-free. If your personal injury claim is relying mainly on the data gathered from an event data recorder, this data may be incomplete or incorrect — greatly affecting the outcome of your claim.
The technology of EDRs has safeguards to minimize the risks of malfunctions. Through tracking digital actions over time, technicians are able to verify the dependability of data collected by the device.
Due to the confusion that can occur after a road traffic incident, it is common for those involved to have an unreliable memory of what happened. EDR use in non fatal accident claims can provide an objective record of the events leading up to and during the crash, helping legal professionals accurately determine fault. In cases where one party has made false or misleading statements, evidence from an EDR has been known to provide proof that may be instrumental in a successful court ruling.
What Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Do For You?
When you are injured in an accident, the last things you want to deal with are insurance companies and mountains of paperwork. However, without a personal injury attorney by your side, you may be compelled to handle all this while trying to recover from your injuries.
Unfortunately, insurance adjusters are known for tricking accident victims into lowering the value of their cases in an effort to save their companies more money.
An experienced personal injury attorney can be valuable asset for your case. With the help of a personal injury attorney by your side, you will gain the upper hand in legal proceedings. Especially in cases that involve the use of an event data recorder. Your attorney will know how to use the collected data to your advantage in order to recover the maximum compensation possible in your case.
Furthermore, they can take care of any documentation or conversations required during the process so that you can focus on your healing process and ultimately achieve a favorable outcome.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can do the following:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the accident and collect evidence to support your claim
- Handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf
- Negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company
- Negotiate your medical expenses
- Get your property damage repaired for free
- File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
- Represent you in court
Get An Award-Winning Attorney On Your Side
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, do not hesitate to contact Farahi Law Firm today!
Our team of experienced lawyers, doctors, and case managers will fight to recover the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. Farahi Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for hundreds of clients — which is why is earned the 2023 Law Firm of the Year award from the American Institute of Legal Professionals.
We work on a contingency fee basis and offer our clients a No Fee Guarantee. This means you won’t need to pay us a single cent unless we win your case.
We can help you get the best medical care and the financial compensation you deserve! Contact us today at (844) 824-2955 for a free case consultation.
We are available 24/7. Your justice is our cause! Call Farahi Law Firm now.
