Obtaining black box data can be essential in proving your truck accident case. In recent years, black boxes have become the standard in the industry as more safety regulators push the use of these important devices in an effort to improve safety in the commercial trucking industry. These electronic monitoring systems are also referred to as electronic data recorders or electronic log systems and are implemented in commercial trucks throughout the nation.
It is crucial that truck accident attorneys download the truck’s black box data as soon as possible following any serious truck accident. The black box data can help to prove your case. Below is an overview of the importance of black boxes:
Black Boxes and Truck GPS
Black boxes are usually equipped with global positioning systems and will provide the main source of information as to a truck’s route and journey, depicting exactly where the truck was before the crash.
Black boxes track significant information about a truck, including vehicle maintenance issues like tire pressure and truck driver performance, such as speed control, sudden braking, following distance, and exceeding the maximum number of allowable hours.
Black boxes will also contain email exchanges between the trucking company and the truck drive. Sometimes, these exchanges will lead to monumental discoveries as to driver fatigue, mechanical problems, exceeding hours, and more.
While the data that can be obtained will vary depending on the model of the black box, in some instances records of hard braking, engine RPMS, and use of the clutch will all be recorded.
Obtaining Black Box Data
In any truck accident case involving a serious injury or death, the truck accident attorney should send a preservation of evidence letter, commonly also referred to as a spoliation letter, via certified mail to the motor carrier, notifying the company that the black box data will be required for litigation and must not be moved or repaired. This letter should be sent as soon as possible so as to prevent the destruction of potential evidence.
It is also important that the truck accident attorney retains a truck expert who will be present when the black box is downloaded. At the least, there should be an agreement as to how, where, and by whom the information will be downloaded. This is vital to prevent any errors in the downloading process that could result in loss of information.
Many new trucks will have extra devices designed specifically to monitor driver fatigue, monitor proximity to the vehicles ahead, blind spot detection, and rollover prevention. To determine what information you need to request, ask for the truck’s build sheet which will identify all the equipment installed on the truck when it was delivered from the manufacturer. If you are having difficulties obtaining the black box data, your attorney should file suit immediately so that the court can help in preserving the evidence.
Barrett Law PLLC: Aggressive Representation for the Victims of Truck Accidents Across the State
Truck accidents are among the most serious accidents to occur on Mississippi roadways. These accidents can result in severe injuries such as paralysis, brain injury, back injury, broken bones, spinal cord damage, and much more. Many individuals will additionally lose a loved one due to a truck accident each year. If you or a loved one is hurt or killed in a truck accident, the Mississippi Truck Accident Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC can help. We offer dedicated representation to truck accident victims seeking a full recovery for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Call the experienced truck accident attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC today at 1 (800) 707-9577 to schedule your free consultation.