If you have been injured in a car accident in Maryland due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages. However, proving liability can be a challenge. That said, you may be able to utilize your vehicle’s black box data to help prove fault. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about these matters and why working with a skilled Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer is in your best interest.
What is Black Box Data?
If your vehicle was manufactured after 2018, it likely contains an event data record (EDR), commonly known as a “black box.” This device captures and stores critical vehicle data before, during, and after an auto accident. A black box can provide the following information after a crash:
- Speed
- Acceleration and deceleration
- Braking
- Steering angle
- Throttle position
- Seatbelt usage
- Airbag deployment
- Force of impact
- Crash duration
- GPS location
- Headlights/taillights
- Turn signal usage
How Can Black Box Data Benefit My Car Accident Claim in Maryland?
In the aftermath of a collision, conflicting accounts of what happened often cloud the truth. Black box data can provide impartial data that helps determine fault. It serves as an objective witness, recording information such as vehicle speed, braking activity, steering input, and even seatbelt usage. This type of data can paint a clear picture of the events leading up to the crash, helping to reconstruct the scene and identify any negligence or recklessness on the motorists’ part.
Insurance companies can use this data to assess the severity of an accident and determine liability. However, under Maryland law, the information stored in a black box is the property of the car’s owner. This means that if you are involved in an accident, investigators can only access the data stored by your vehicle’s EDR with your permission or a valid warrant. It’s important to note that only qualified individuals can access and interpret the data collected by these devices following a crash.
If the other motorist attempts to shift the blame, you can use your vehicle’s EDR data to corroborate your claims. For instance, if they try to argue that you were speeding, you can use the black box data to show the vehicle’s speed before, during, and after the accident. This can help verify statements and cast doubt on the other motorist’s credibility.
It’s important to note that this data can be used as evidence in legal proceedings to establish liability and determine compensation. Additionally, Maryland is a contributory negligence state, meaning if you contributed in any way to the accident, you will face the absolute bar of recovery. Therefore, you should consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options and determine if submitting your black dox data is advisable.
At McCarthy, Winkleman, & Mester, L.L.P., we are prepared to help you understand and utilize this data to fight for the compensation you deserve. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you during these difficult times.
