The Role Black Box Data Plays In Atlanta Truck Accident Claims
When truck accidents in Atlanta happen, determining why and who is at fault is often challenging. Unlike other crashes, these cases usually require complex evidence to determine who is liable.
One of the most critical tools is black box data, collected by electronic logging devices (ELD) installed in most trucks. Our Atlanta truck accident lawyers explain the information it provides and how it can help you get compensation.
What Is Black Box Data, and Why Does It Matter in Atlanta Truck Accident Cases?
Most commercial trucks in Georgia are equipped with an electronic control module (ECM) or electronic logging device (ELD), commonly referred to as a “black box.” The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) generally requires these devices, which record a wide range of data that can be crucial in reconstructing the moments leading up to a crash.
Black box data is especially valuable when an Atlanta truck accident happens, and there are disputes over how it occurred and who is liable, which is common. In many cases, black box evidence can be the key to proving:
- The truck was speeding or driving erratically;
- The driver exceeded federally allowed hours of service;
- The driver failed to brake or react in time due to distraction or fatigue;
- The truck’s maintenance systems were malfunctioning.
Because this data is stored digitally, it must be downloaded quickly before it gets overwritten or deleted.
How Atlanta Truck Accident Victims Benefit from Black Box Evidence
Under the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, most commercial motor vehicles engaged in interstate commerce must use ELDs to track driving time. These systems are designed to help prevent drowsy driving, a frequent cause of truck accidents in Atlanta, but also provide objective evidence that can prove negligence. Here’s how black box data may be able to help in your injury claim:
- Validate eyewitness accounts and police reports with hard data;
- Reveal violations of federal safety regulations, such as hours-of-service limits;
- Counter false claims made by trucking companies or insurance adjusters;
- Demonstrate patterns of reckless driving or negligent maintenance.
Because trucking companies and their insurers know how damaging this data can be, they may move quickly to preserve only selected portions or try to deny access altogether. Our Atlanta truck accident lawyers act fast to send preservation of evidence letters and demand full disclosure of black box data before it disappears.
To Preserve Evidence In Your Claim, Contact Our Experienced Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers
When truck accidents in Atlanta happen, securing critical evidence, such as black box data, can make all the difference in getting the compensation you need to recover. Shiver Hamilton, LLC, has the experience and resources to move quickly, analyze the evidence thoroughly, and hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
Our Atlanta truck accident lawyers proudly represent clients across Savannah, Alpharetta, Decatur, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, and all of DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties. To get the professional legal help you need, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
eld.fmcsa.dot.gov/FAQ/Topics?name=ELD_Technical_Specifications
ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-395/subpart-A/section-395.8
