When a car is in an accident, its “black box” records crucial information that is helpful to investigators.
That “black box” in an automobile is called an Event Data Recorder (EDR). BWI Investigations-Forensics (BWI) now has the advanced technology to download and analyze EDR data, enhancing its accident investigation services.
The EDR captures critical data leading up to, during, and after a crash, including:
• Vehicle speed immediately before impact
• Brake usage or whether the brakes were applied
• Steering angle and steering movements
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Seatbelt usage by occupants
• Airbag deployment timing and sequence
• Impact force on the vehicle during the crash
The Role of EDR in Traffic Accident Investigations at BWI
Longtime traffic accident investigator John Maxwell joined BWI in spring 2024 with more than 30 years of experience. He offers comprehensive vehicle crash investigations and reconstruction.
John’s traffic investigations apply to civil, criminal, and insurance-related cases. He’s handled all types of traffic investigations – including those involving vehicular homicide, bodily injury, pedestrians struck by cars, or high speed.
He says that downloading and analyzing a car’s EDR data is crucial in traffic investigations for several key reasons:
Accident Reconstruction: EDR data provides precise, unbiased information about the events leading up to an accident (such as speed, braking, steering, and deceleration), which BWI can use to help reconstruct what happened.
“For example, if a car veers off a road, the EDR data can help show whether this was caused by driver error, a mechanical failure, or something that happened externally, outside of the vehicle,” John says.
Determining Fault: EDR data can help clarify disputes between parties by presenting clear, objective data. For example, EDR data can show whether the driver braked or if the vehicle was speeding.
Airbag and Safety Analysis: EDR data is used to evaluate if the vehicle’s safety systems, such as the airbags, deployed as expected, which might affect liability.
Supplement to Eyewitness Testimony: EDR data can corroborate or contradict statements made by drivers and witnesses, helping to piece together an accurate account of the crash.
EDR evidence can establish facts about the incident, John says.
“EDR downloads help provide a factual basis for understanding the circumstances of a crash,” John says, “which allows us to draw more accurate conclusions about an accident. EDR information is also helpful in our review of what an investigating agency did during their investigation.”
Why Choose BWI for EDR Analysis and Accident Investigations
At BWI Investigations – Forensics, the ability to extract and analyze Event Data Recorder (EDR) information enhances our comprehensive accident investigation services. Our experienced traffic investigations expert leverages EDR data to offer reliable, fact-based insights in accident reconstructions and legal proceedings.
To hire BWI’s traffic investigations expert to perform EDR download and analysis services on your case — or to learn how BWI can assist in any accident investigation — please call (615) 646-0860 or fill out this contact form.