A black box recorder is a device that collects data, which may be used as evidence in a traffic accident investigation. Contact a truck accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale at Wolf & Pravato to discuss the types of evidence that may prove helpful and for help gathering the proper documentation.
Compensation could be available to address your emotional and physical injuries after the accident. These can be addressed through damages such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and more. Lost wages may be recoverable as well.
Data Contained in a Black Box Recorder
In addition to other types of evidence that can help establish liability in a traffic accident investigation, the information obtained from a black box can be a critical piece to understanding what happened prior to an accident. For instance, it may record the speed of the truck.
So if you were traveling on a busy street in Ft. Lauderdale like Broward Blvd., when your truck accident happened, if the recorder shows the truck driver was exceeding the speed limit, this could be an indication of the driver’s negligence.
In addition to speed, a black box recorder may provide data on how long the truck was in operation. This could be important because drivers are allowed a certain number of hours behind the wheel. If those hours are exceeded, it could help substantiate a claim of fatigue, but it also would show that federal regulations were violated. This could result in both the driver and trucking company being liable.
A black box recorder sometimes includes data regarding braking, accelerations, time spent idling, crash severity, and other information that can be useful in a traffic accident investigation. An attorney can help secure the black box device to use as evidence in the case.
Other Types of Evidence in a Traffic Accident Investigation
In addition to the black box, you will want to assemble other types of evidence. This could include the driver’s written logbook, statements from witnesses, photographs of the accident scene, and a copy of the police report.
Evidence should not only establish liability but also show the extent and severity of your injuries. This can include copies of your medical records, such as x-rays, lab results, prescriptions, and documentation that indicate the types of injuries you sustained.
If you hope to recover lost income after a truck accident, you will need paperwork that shows how much you have been without. And if you are now permanently disabled, you’ll need evidence of your earning potential.
Seeking Help from a Truck Accident Attorney
Injuries from a crash with a big rig can be catastrophic. In 2010, 76 percent of the people killed in accidents involving large trucks were occupants of the other vehicle, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Meanwhile, 14 percent were occupants of the truck.
To learn about the legal options available if you are seriously injured or a family member is killed, contact a truck accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato at (954) 522-5800.
