Author: Jason Waechter | Date: April 27, 2025 | Category: Motorcycle Laws
View this post on Instagram
If you’ve been hit by a negligent car or truck driver while riding your motorcycle, there’s a silent witness you might not know about – the other vehicle’s Event Data Recorder (EDR).
Did you know a car might have a “black box” similar to those found in airplanes? These devices, called Event Data Recorders (EDRs), are now standard in most modern vehicles. Here’s what Michigan drivers and motorcyclists should understand about EDRs:
An Event Data Recorder is a device installed in many cars that records crucial data or information before, during, and after a crash.
Often referred to as a car’s “black box”.
Present in over 95% of new vehicles.
Continuously monitor and record data from various vehicle sensors.
Activate automatically during a crash or sudden deceleration.
Store information for a brief period (usually 5-20 seconds) surrounding the event.
EDRs can record various data points, including:
Provide valuable insights for motorcycle and other vehicle accident investigations.
Help determine fault and liability in crashes.
Assist in improving vehicle safety systems.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident that involves a truck or car accident in Michigan, understanding EDR data could be crucial for your case. Our experienced attorneys and experts can help interpret this information and protect your rights.
It’s the car’s built-in “detective”
Records crucial data about the crash
Could prove the other driver’s faul
No specific Michigan laws, but federal rules apply
Covers vehicles made after September 1, 2012
Data belongs to the car owner – but we can get it
After a motorcycle crash with a negligent driver, their car’s EDR can:
1. Act fast to preserve that EDR data of the car or truck
2. Call a motorcycle-savvy lawyer ASAP
3. Let your attorney handle EDR data preservation and retrieval
4. Remember: This evidence is crucial to your case
When a motorcyclist is hit by a semi-truck, the aftermath can be devastating. The semi-truck’s black box (EDR) can prove essential to prove truck driver negligence. This article will explore how these devices can be a game-changer for motorcyclists in Michigan who have been involved in accidents with large commercial vehicles.
A black box, or EDR, is a device installed in most modern semi-trucks that records crucial data about the vehicle’s operation.
It’s just like a car’s EDR as described above.
Semi-truck black boxes capture a wealth of data that can be critical in determining the cause of an accident. Here’s what they typically record which is a little different than a car:
This information is usually recorded for the 20 seconds before, during, and after a collision.
For a motorcyclist involved in an accident with a semi-truck, the black box data can be invaluable:
In Michigan, the owner of the vehicle owns the data in the black box.
This means trucking companies have control over the data and may not willingly hand it over. Police investigators often retrieve the information in serious injury crashes.
A skilled Michigan truck accident lawyer can help secure this crucial evidence.
They may need to file a formal request or even ask a judge to order the trucking company to provide the data.
It’s crucial to act quickly, as some black boxes may overwrite data within 30 to 60 days.
Your lawyer can take legal steps to prevent the trucking company from erasing or altering the data.
While Michigan doesn’t have specific laws regarding truck black boxes, several statutes are relevant to truck accidents:
A: It varies, but typically 30 to 60 days for newer trucks, and only a few days for older models.
A: They may try, but a court order can compel them to release the information.
A: Michigan’s comparative negligence law may still allow you to recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault.
A: Generally very accurate, which is why it’s considered crucial evidence in accident investigations.
A: Yes, it’s often admissible as evidence in legal proceedings.
If You’re a Motorcyclist Involved in an Accident with a Semi-Truck in Michigan:
Time is of the essence when it comes to securing black box data. Here’s why:
An experienced attorney can be crucial in leveraging black box data for your case:
As technology advances, we can expect:
For motorcyclists who have been hit by semi-trucks, black box data can be a game-changer. It provides objective, detailed information that can cut through conflicting accounts and reveal the truth about an accident. By understanding the importance of this technology and acting quickly to secure its data, injured motorcyclists in Michigan can significantly strengthen their legal cases and improve their chances of obtaining fair compensation.
Remember, if you’ve been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. An experienced Michigan truck accident attorney can guide you through the process of obtaining and using black box data to support your case. With this powerful evidence on your side, you’ll be better equipped to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Event Data Recorders (EDRs), also known as “black boxes,” are becoming more common in motorcycles. These devices capture crucial information about your ride, especially in the moments before and during an accident. Here’s what every Michigan rider should know:
Not all bikes are equipped with EDRs. Here’s a quick rundown:
OTHER BRANDS: May have EDRs, but often don’t disclose this information:
Black boxes in motorcycles typically capture:
IMPORTANT: EDRs usually store data for only 8 seconds before an event!
Events are recorded when the bike falls and enters Emergency Shutdown (ES)
The rear wheel must have been moving within about 10 seconds before shutdown
Some models require a sudden deceleration to trigger recording
Most EDRs can store up to three events
PRIVACY CONCERNS: WHO OWNS THE DATA?
As EDRs become more common, privacy issues are emerging:
Currently, there’s no clear federal law on EDR data ownership
Some states have laws protecting EDR data as the vehicle owner’s property. I would advise not to consent to downloading your motorcycle’s EDR data. I would say, “I would like to consult and attorney first. I will not until I talk to a lawyer. This is final.”
Proposed federal legislation aims to require owner consent for data access
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Michigan, EDR data can be crucial:
It provides objective evidence of what happened before the crash
This data can support your case in insurance claims or lawsuits
It may help determine fault in complex accident scenarios
Specialized tools are needed to download EDR data
For some brands like Kawasaki, the ECU must be sent to the manufacturer
Quick action is important, as data can be overwritten or lost
More manufacturers are likely to adopt this technology
Data recording capabilities may expand in the future
Privacy laws and regulations are evolving to address EDR use
Be aware if your motorcycle has an EDR
Understand your rights regarding the data it collects
Consult with a knowledgeable attorney if you’re in an accident involving EDR data
Remember, while EDRs can provide valuable information, they’re just one piece of the puzzle in motorcycle accident cases. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Michigan, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who understands the complexities of EDR data and motorcycle law.
At MotorcycleLawyerMichigan.com, our expert witnesses are EDR experts for motorcycle crash victims:
If we go to court, we make that data work for you
As a motorcycle rider hit by a careless driver, don’t let this crucial evidence slip away. Jason Waechter, The Motorcycle Lawyer, and his team know how to make the other driver’s black box tell your story. Let’s uncover the truth and fight for your rights. You’ve been through enough – let us handle the technical details and build your strongest case. We work “no-win-no-fee” meaning there is never a fee unless we win compensation for you. Call now for a free strategy session. We handle the entire state of Michigan; we have 6 offices. Call now.
Our Mission: To get you the absolute best results, as fast as possible.
• We can be working on your case within the hour!
• We get wage loss & medical bills paid immediately and for FREE*
Motorcycle Results: $2,000,000 – $2,000,000 – $1,500,000 – $1,400,000 – $1,250,000 – $1,200,000 – $1,000,000
CALL NOW
Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Provide a few simple details about your injury and our team will take it from there.