Event data recorders (EDRs) otherwise known as black boxes are collision recording devices that are installed in most commercial vehicles, including 18-wheelers. EDRs record vehicle information a few seconds before a collision occurs. The recording generally starts right before the accident and continues onwards during and after the collision as well.

There are various models of EDRs but most of them record the driver’s input, the dynamics and system status of the truck, and post-crash data. 

When it comes to attempting to determine the fault after a truck accident, the information provided by the EDR can be very useful. This data can be a good indication explaining whether the truck malfunctioned on its own or whether the truck driver was just distracted while driving. Not all 18-wheelers have EDRs installed in them. Apart from using an EDR to help determine who is at fault in an accident, insurance companies also use EDRs to figure out the risk a driver has and how much premium they should be charged with.

EDRs are installed in most large commercial vehicles and not in smaller vehicles because of the higher risk 18-wheelers have of causing fatal damage once they get into an accident.

What are other differences between an 18-wheeler and a regular car?

Apart from the obvious outer appearance, 18-wheelers also have larger engines. In fact, the engine in these massive vehicles is often 6 times as big as that of an ordinary car. 18-wheelers also need a lot more space to turn (their turning radius is around 55 feet) and they have much larger side mirrors than a car. 18-wheelers also obviously require a lot more fuel to travel the same amount of space as a car.

It can be scary sharing the road with one of these massive vehicles, but they are integral to the economy of the United States. Nearly 70% of all goods and products are transported using these types of trucks. 

If a driver gets hit by an 18-wheeler the damage will undoubtedly be severe. In order to ensure a driver gets enough settlement, it always helps to hire a legal professional. A lawyer will be able to access vital pieces of evidence such as the EDR data and other relevant information that can help a person prove the negligence of the truck driver. A lawyer is not only useful because they can help gather evidence, but the authority they have can be used to encourage insurance companies and any other party who is at-fault to respond fairly and offer an adequate amount of compensation for the harm they caused.

If a person is all on their own there are high chances, they may be taken advantage of by other parties and given a much lower settlement offer then what they deserve. Out of desperation, drivers often make the mistake of signing for this lower amount. With an attorney by ones’ side, a person can avoid making this mistake and sign the papers only when they have been given a just offer from the other party.