Large truck crashes are far more likely to cause severe injuries and fatalities than collisions involving regular vehicles. There is also an added layer of complexity in truck accident claims because there is more evidence to consider when proving negligence and liability.
Most commercial trucks today have event data recorders (EDRs), also called “black boxes.” A black box is an electronic device that records about 15 different kinds of data regarding the vehicle’s operation. Black boxes play an important role in proving liability following big rig accidents.
If you were hurt in a collision with an 18-wheeler, the Jackson personal injury attorneys at Coxwell & Associates can review the black box data and other evidence to ensure your claim is as strong as possible heading into settlement negotiations. Since EDR data can be destroyed, it is essential that you take action immediately. Call 877-231-1600 to schedule a case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer in Mississippi.
How Can Black Box Data Strengthen My Truck Accident Claim?
In the trucking industry, manufacturers originally installed black boxes in their vehicles to prevent motor carriers from filing fraudulent warranty claims. But since these devices provide helpful information about a tractor-trailer’s operation before, during, and after a crash, truck manufacturers are not the only ones who benefit from an EDR’s tracking capabilities.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, EDRs are capable of recording:
- Airbag deployment details;
- The vehicle’s average speed;
- The vehicle’s specific speed at various points in time;
- Hours driven;
- Brake and accelerator applications; and
- The driver’s seat belt usage.
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, much of this data could contribute to the strength of your claim by helping your attorney prove negligence and liability. For example, if the trucker was breaking the speed limit just before the crash, black box data may be used to prove the infraction. This data can also be used to prove Hours of Service violations and a number of other forms of negligence.
Although data from an EDR can strengthen your claim, additional evidence is typically needed to recover a fair settlement. Proof of fault might include eyewitness testimony, the police report, insight from expert witnesses, photographs of the scene, and dashcam footage.
An injury lawyer from Coxwell & Associates can gather all of the above while you focus on your health. We know the types of evidence needed to prove liability in truck accident claims, and we are seasoned litigators and skilled settlement negotiators.
Discuss Your Case with a Truck Accident Attorney in Jackson Today!
Our attorneys will work closely with your healthcare providers and insurance company to ensure you’re being treated properly while your case receives the attention it deserves. We are passionate about the law and dedicated to helping our clients regain their financial security after life-changing accidents.
Our personal injury lawyers have recovered nearly $300 million in successful settlements and verdicts. Call (601) 265-7766, fill out our Contact Form or click on the image below to schedule a consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.