Collisions with massive 18-wheelers or semi-trucks often lead to devastating injuries and extensive property damage. If you were injured in a truck accident, you may be facing a lengthy recovery process and an overwhelming pile of medical bills, all while being unable to work.
As a truck accident lawyer with over 50 years of experience representing injured clients in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Iowa, the legal team at Hupy and Abraham understands how complex these cases can be. We know that commercial trucks are equipped with Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and other event data recorders that provide valuable information about the moments leading up to a crash. Our attorneys have the knowledge and resources to secure this vital evidence and use it to build a strong case on your behalf.
Keep reading to learn more about black box data's role in truck accident claims and how our skilled legal team can help you get the compensation you deserve.
What Is Black Box Data?
Most commercial trucks manufactured in the last 30 years have an event data recorder (EDR) built into the vehicle. These EDRs are similar to the "black boxes" used in airplanes and are designed to collect data about the truck's operations.
The exact data collected varies depending on the specific type of device used, but generally speaking, black boxes record information like:
- Speed. Black box data shows how fast the truck traveled in the moments before the crash and whether the truck exceeded the posted speed limit.
- Braking. Black box data indicates if and when the brakes were applied before impact. It also records details about the pressure applied to the brakes.
- Usage. Black box data documents how long the truck was in use and the distance traveled. This data can be compared to Hours of Service (HOS) logs to determine if the truck driver was operating the vehicle in violation of federal regulations regarding rest breaks and thus too tired to drive safely.
- Maintenance Issues. Black box data often notes vehicle maintenance concerns, such as low fluid levels, that could point to neglected repairs as a contributing factor in the crash.
Truck accident lawyers often work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the EDR data and determine the cause of the wreck. This data provides an unbiased record of the events leading up to the accident and can be used to support other evidence.
How EDR Data Strengthens Truck Accident Claims
There are many ways your attorney can use the data from a truck's black box to build a strong case against the trucking company and its insurance carrier:
- Proving Liability. Your attorney can argue the driver was negligent if black box data shows they were speeding, operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner, or violating Hours of Service regulations.
- Verifying Witness Statements. Your lawyer will compare crash details recorded in the EDR to witness statements to verify their accuracy and give them more weight in your case.
- Countering False Claims. Insurance companies often try to place unwarranted blame on passenger vehicle drivers. Black box data can prove that the truck driver's negligent actions actually caused the crash.
- Maximizing Compensation. Showing clear proof of liability increases the odds that the insurance company will agree to a fair settlement. If they still refuse to offer appropriate compensation, your lawyer can use the EDR data in court to justify your right to damages.
It's important to note that trucking companies aren't required to preserve black box data unless they receive a written notification. That's why it's essential that you contact a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after a wreck so they can take swift action to secure this evidence.
How Can Hupy and Abraham Help After a Truck Accident?
After a commercial truck accident, you may be contacted by representatives from the trucking company and an insurance adjuster from their carrier. They may seem friendly and promise to help with your claim, but their goal is to find ways to limit the company's liability and settle your case for as little as possible.
You need a skilled advocate in your corner with the experience to go up against well-funded trucking companies and their insurance carriers. The attorneys at Hupy and Abraham have a proven track record of successful results in complex truck accident claims. We've recovered over $1 billion on behalf of more than 70,000 clients and are committed to securing full and fair compensation for accident victims.
When you trust our firm to handle your claim, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash
- Preserve vital evidence, including black box data and truck maintenance records
- Work with experts to build a persuasive case on your behalf
- Handle all communication with the trucking company and their representatives
- Negotiate aggressively for a settlement that meets your current and future needs
- Take your case to trial if the other side refuses to make a fair offer
We're proud to be the largest personal injury law firm in the Midwest, with 11 offices across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Iowa. Our attorneys are known for providing compassionate, client-focused representation and have been voted Best Lawyers and rated Best Law Firm year after year. We're dedicated to getting every dollar our clients deserve.
