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 One of the new technologies that are very helpful in automobile accident reconstruction and forensic analysis is the inclusion of Event Data Recorders (EDRs) into many of the newer vehicles. Retrieval of this information from these “black boxes” after an accident is especially helpful to the experts who are reconstructing the accident.
Crash Data Retrieval (CDR) relies upon several instruments installed in many passenger cars and SUVs today. The instruments are the Airbag Control Module (ACM), the Roll-over Sensors (ROS), the Power train Control Module (PCM), the Restraint Control Module (RCM), the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), and the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM). They all are generally referred to as Event Data Recorders (EDRs) (Click here for current list).
One of the big advantages of these devices is that they can record collision data whether or not the airbags deployed. Even in relatively low speed frontal collisions they can record collision and pre collision data. Many times these low speed events result in claims being filed long after the vehicle is back in service. It is critical that the data be downloaded from the device as soon as possible, as another 'event' can overwrite the original data. Anytime there is a crash with more than a few hundred dollars of damage, the VSI team should be called immediately to secure the valuable data from the EDR.
In the cases where the airbags are not deployed, it is critical to retrieve this data immediately, as the information is easily lost or corrupted. This data can be lost in a number of ways depending on the specific vehicle including but not limited to: normal service, a set number of key on/key offs, another acceleration or jolt that overwrites the previous data (this can even happen while getting towed to a shop), the body shop may reset the module, etc.
These recording devices are very sensitive to a number of factors. If non-certified technicians attempt to download the data, they may accidentally erase or overwrite the very data they are trying to retrieve. VSI has multiple experts certified as CDR/EDR technicians and analysts. VSI will retrieve this information within 48 hours of being notified. Also, as part of our Rapid Response services, we can download EDR data while on scene.
Crash data retrieval is an important part of accident investigation and accident reconstruction, providing objective results and a method for validation of traditional crash reconstruction techniques. VSI will retrieve the information from the EDR module located in the vehicles and store the information electronically for 3 years in the event our clients desire further analysis. This information may also prevent the time consuming and costly escalation to litigation.
VSI's crash data retrieval service may include and is not limited to the following:
• Inspect and photograph the airbag module for damage
• Electronically store all photographs, CDR information and reports in VSI's archive with retrieval keys of date,
vehicle make/model, owner, insurance company, and/or claim number
• Analyze download and provide written summary of data. (click here for a sample report).
• Provide paper or electronic copy of report for inclusion in client's file system
Information downloaded, analyzed and archived from the CDR/EDR contains both pre-crash and post-crash information. 'Specific data available may include:
• Vehicle speed
• Engine RPM's
• Percent of throttle applied
• Brake status (brakes applied or not)
• Status of driver's seat belt (buckled or not buckled)
• Status of airbag warning lamp (on or off)
• Status of front passenger air bag (enabled or disabled)
• Time from vehicle impact to air bag deployments
• Number of ignition cycles at time of impact
• Number of ignition cycles at time of investigation
• Time between crash events
• Delta-V (change in velocity) experienced
• Steering input in degrees
• Anti-lock brake activation (on or off)
• Transmission status
• And potentially more values...
 Click here for geographic areas served and pricing.
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