Electronic Computer Modules (ECMs) on commercial trucks limit the speed and monitor a variety of operations on tractor-trailers. They are required on all tractor-trailers and other big trucks in the U.S. A truck’s ECM system monitors such operations as the truck’s:
- Engine performance
- Fuel efficiency
- Speed (engine RPMs)
- Braking
- Use of clutch
- Use of cruise control
- Mechanical problems
- Airbag systems
When the ECMs detect problems in the vehicle, the system turns on dashboard warning lights.
Most ECM systems have an Event Data Recorder (EDR) function. Upon a triggering event, such as hard braking, quick stopping, or a collision, the EDR will record ECM data for 1 to 2 minutes before and after the triggering event.
Leveraging ECM Data for a Stronger Truck Accident Lawsuit
After a crash, a truck accident injury lawyer investigating a potential claim for an injured client should move promptly to have the truck and its electronic systems preserved as possible evidence in a lawsuit.
Our truck accident emergency response team includes attorneys David W. Craig and Scott A. Faultless, a private investigator, a truck mechanic, an expert qualified to download ECM data, and an accident reconstruction specialist.
Our legal team at Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC would move to gain access to the truck so a technology specialist can download the contents of the truck’s event data record. In a best-case scenario, we are contacted immediately so our team members can go to the accident scene and gather evidence.
An electronic control module system delivers information to the EDR that will allow a properly trained analyst to determine such facts as:
- Vehicle speed
- Engine speed
- Change in velocity
- Longitudinal acceleration
- Lateral acceleration
- Steering wheel angle
- Brake application
- Anti-lock braking system activity
- Seatbelt usage
- Percent throttle
- Yaw rate
- Roll angle
- Gear selection
- Tire pressure
Our team evaluates downloaded data in conjunction with any physical evidence available to develop a picture of what the truck and its driver were doing before the crash. With that information, we can build a case that negligence on the part of the truck driver or the trucking company led to the accident.
Our Legal Team Focuses on Indiana Truck Accidents
The Indianapolis law firm of Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC has decades of experience helping victims of semi-truck accidents seek compensation for losses they have suffered. Having handled many semi-truck accidents in Indiana, our attorneys understand the importance of a team approach and quick action.
We promptly respond when contacted and thoroughly investigate truck accidents to gather evidence before it is lost. We work to determine fault and then negotiate aggressively for full compensation for clients injured by negligent truck drivers, by the trucking companies who employ them, or by other parties, as the evidence shows.
If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident in Indiana, contact us for a free review of your case today.
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