What Do Electronic Logging Devices Mean for Your Truck Accident Claim?
Electronic logging devices (ELDs) were made mandatory by the federal government in 2017 for all commercial truck drivers. This was done to monitor the number of hours spent by commercial truck drivers behind the wheel.
ELDs can provide crucial information and evidence in a truck accident claim. In relation to this, it requires an experienced Alabama truck accident attorney to obtain the ELD records from the trucking company, analyze the data and use it to determine liability and present a strong claim for damages.
What is an Electronic Logging Device?
Electronic logging devices record data regarding the driving time and hours of service of commercial truck drivers. It also records information about the truck’s engine, miles driven, and movement.
Commercial trucking company managers, drivers, and dispatchers use the real-time information provided by an ELD to check live status. Your attorney will use the information from an ELD to prove the trip was not compliant with industry regulations, did not support schedule planning, and did not adhere to the required inspection.
The ELD is connected to the truck’s engine allowing it to automatically record essential information. This data can then be uploaded to the truck company’s fleet management software. Commercial drivers are required by the Federal Highway Administration’s MAP-21 Act to use these devices when preparing records of duty status (RODS).
The mandate sets the performance and design standards of the ELDs as well. It is required for these devices to be certified and registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Drivers are required to keep certain documents to meet the necessary guidelines as well.
Impact of ELD on Alabama Truck Accident Claims
Electronic logging device data can be used for making your Alabama truck accident claim stronger. Your attorney will need to explore the records accurately though. They may bring on an accident reconstruction expert to spot violations and identify any dangerous practices that may have played a role in the crash.
These are a few types of vital information that an electronic logging device can bring to light:
Driving beyond the mandated hours
Commercial truck drivers are required to follow hours of service rules. These were put in place to prevent tired and overworked commercial truck drivers from jeopardizing the safety of other motorists. HOS rules stipulate the number of hours a truck driver can work and is required to rest. Studies show that tired driving has a similar effect on people as driving drunk. Truck drivers and companies increase the risk of accidents by violating these rules.
Violation of inspection and maintenance rules
FMCSA has enforced several regulations that require trucking companies and drivers to inspect and maintain their fleets properly and regularly. The maintenance rules are based on the miles driven. Electronic logging devices can prove that the truck did not have adequate maintenance or follow due inspection protocols. Your attorney may be able to connect this violation with the accident, thereby, increasing the compensation amount.
Electronic logging devices can provide essential information for directing the investigation into the accident. The data recorded can show whether the truck was poorly maintained resulting in the accident. Driving manner right before the accident can show whether the driver was drunk or fatigued.
After careful investigation, your hard-working attorney may also be able to deduce whether the trucking company addressed maintenance issues and flouting rules in a timely manner.
Other violations of the rules
Data from electronic logging devices can be used to shed light on different types of violations depending on the truck involved. For instance, the truck could be on a road where it was not supposed to be. The ELD may also show whether the truck was carrying any prohibited substance or traveling over the speed limit.
Vital Evidence Recorded by an Electronic Logging Device
Electronic logging devices are designed and mandated to ensure that truck drivers are not motivated to sacrifice the rest they need for a quick buck. Commercial truckers have a duty to drive in a safe manner. ELDs are required to automatically collect data regarding the following:
- Movement of the truck
- Driver’s logged hours
- Truck’s maintenance schedule
This information can prove to be highly useful in maximizing your compensation when negotiating with the insurance company. Electronic logging devices are known to record high-accuracy data that can also be used in court in case the claim goes to trial. Electronic logging devices can show whether a driver was compliant with service hours and HOS regulations.
It can prove whether the trucker was speeding when the accident took place. The data collected by an electronic logging device is impartial and can make an insurance company take your claim seriously.
Discuss a Winning Legal Strategy with our Truck Accident Attorneys to Maximize Financial Damages
The truck accident attorneys at the Smith Law Firm are experienced in reviewing electronic logging device data in order to prepare a strong claim. Our attorneys have the necessary resources and knowledge to compel insurance companies to take your claim seriously and offer a high settlement amount.
Schedule a free and confidential consultation with a skilled personal injury attorney today. Call 334-377-1674 or write to us online.
