How to Use Black Box Data in Auto Accidents

Modern cars and trucks may contain an Event Data Recorder (EDR)—often called a vehicle “black box”—that can store a short snapshot of technical crash data, such as speed, braking, and airbag status. Federal standards for certain EDR functions are addressed in 49 CFR Part 563. In Georgia crash litigation, the key issues are often preserving the vehicle and data early, using a qualified expert to retrieve it, and proving reliability, chain of custody, and admissibility in court.

What is a “black box” (Event Data Recorder) in a car or truck?

A vehicle “black box,” often called an Event Data Recorder (EDR), is an electronic system that may store a short snapshot of technical data from the seconds before, during, and after a crash—depending on the vehicle and how the event is classified.

What kinds of data can an EDR record?

EDR data may include items like speed, braking, throttle, seat belt status, and airbag deployment. What is available depends on the manufacturer, model, and system.

Why does EDR data matter in Georgia car and truck accident litigation?

In disputed-liability cases, EDR data can help evaluate what happened in the critical seconds around impact. It can also become a preservation issue: if data is overwritten, lost, or the vehicle is altered, that may affect the evidence available in a Georgia case.

How long does EDR data last?

It depends. Some events can be overwritten after a number of ignition cycles, while other events may be retained. The practical point is that preservation should be addressed early.

Where is the EDR usually located?

Locations vary by vehicle, but EDR/ECM components are often found under a front seat, near the center console, or within vehicle control modules. Exact access and download methods vary by manufacturer.

Do all crashes have usable “black box” data?

No. Some crashes do not trigger recording, some vehicles do not have accessible EDR data, and in some cases the module is damaged or data can’t be retrieved.

What are the federal rules for event data recorders?

NHTSA regulates EDR standards under 49 CFR Part 563, which addresses definitions and standardization for certain recorded elements and retrieval expectations.
Recent rulemaking has also addressed pre-crash recording duration and sample rate.

What is “spoliation” in Georgia and why does it matter for vehicle data?

In Georgia, “spoliation” generally refers to the destruction or failure to preserve evidence relevant to contemplated or pending litigation. Georgia courts analyze foreseeability and circumstances when determining duties and potential remedies.

How do lawyers preserve EDR and crash-reconstruction evidence in Georgia?

Preservation steps often include sending a preservation notice, requesting that vehicles/electronic data be maintained, and coordinating an inspection and download through qualified experts. In urgent situations, lawyers may seek court relief to prevent alteration or loss of key evidence.

Is EDR evidence automatically admissible in court?

No, not automatically. Parties often litigate admissibility issues such as foundation, chain of custody, expert qualifications, and consistency with physical evidence.

Updated January 20, 2026 by Ken Shigley, senior counsel at Johnson & Ward. He is a former president of the State Bar of Georgia, former chair of the Institute for Continuing Legal Education in Georgia, former chair of the Motor Vehicle Collision Section of the American Association for Justice, was the first Georgia lawyer earned three board certifications from the National Board of Trial Advocacy, was lead author of eleven editions of Georgia Law of Torts: Trial Preparation & Practice, and received the Traditions of Excellence Award from the State Bar of Georgia General Practice and Trial Section. A graduate of Furman University and Emory University Law School, he completed certificates in negotiation and mediation at Harvard Law School.