Senate Passes Bill that Would Require Black Boxes in Cars

July 22, 2012

Senate Passes Bill that Would Require Black Boxes in Cars

In May, the US Senate passed a mandate requiring the installation of event data recorders, also known as black boxes, in passenger cars. The mandate was included in this year's transportation bill. Though event data recorders have their opponents, the devices are already installed in many cars and provide crucial data to law enforcement in the event of a car accident. The bill will now proceed to the House for consideration.

How do Event Data Recorders Work and What do They Record?

Event data recorders, or EDRs, automatically record and store data within a reasonable timeframe before, during and after a crash. Typically, these systems are connected to the airbag control module. They record various safety data, including vehicle acceleration, throttle position, airbag firing log, seatbelt status and the force of impact of a crash.

The mandate stipulates that the data collected by an EDR is the property of the vehicle owner; however, government and law enforcement officials may access the data through a court order. Emergency responders would be able to access the data without a court order in the event of an accident to understand what caused the crash.

Though some people believe EDRs pose privacy issues, since the data contained in a black box could provide information that could implicate a driver in a crash or other road event, event data recorders provide essential information for accident investigations, criminal and civil liability cases and future safety improvements.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that in 2005, 64 percent of passenger cars had EDRs installed, including models manufactured by General Motors, Ford, Subaru, Mazda and Mitsubishi. These devices provide essential data in the event of a crash.

How Will Event Data Recorders Help Prove Liability?

Since EDRs record safety data before, during and after a crash, their contents may be used to establish fault in an auto accident and to hold the appropriate parties accountable for injuries and deaths caused by their actions. For example, if an EDR reveals that a driver was speeding just before a crash, this information can be used to show negligence in a civil case.

Event data recorders are essential safety tools that can help law enforcement and other safety experts better understand how crashes occur and how to prevent future accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with another vehicle, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney.

Article provided by Joseph J. Reinke, P.C.
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