Accident Recorders

Basic Description

Accident recorders (also called crash data recorders or event data recorders) are systems that constantly record video images and possibly other information related to the vehicle operation. In the event of an accident, the recorder saves the information that was recorded several seconds just before and just after the collision.

After-market systems typically mount just behind the windshield or on the rear-view mirror. They typically have a video recorder and an acceleration sensor. Built-in systems function more like an aircraft's "black box". They record various vehicle operation parameters such as vehicle speed, pedal positions, steering wheel position and other information that may be relevant to a crash investigation. There is a great deal of consumer resistance to vehicle black boxes, due to privacy concerns and the fear that information recorded by a black box could be used against the vehicle owner in a lawsuit resulting from an accident.

Sensors

After-market systems: video camera, acceleration sensor

Automobile black boxes: vehicle speed, engine rpm, steering wheel angle, throttle pedal position, brake pedal position

Actuators

Data stored in electronic memory card

Data Communications

Some systems are stand-alone with no data communication to the vehicle.
Other systems monitor CAN or OBDII communications.

Manufacturers

Bosch, Fujitsu, HK E-CAR, Maplin

For More Information

[1] Event Data Recorder, Wikipedia

[2] Engadget article on Fujitsu DREC1000

[3] HK E-CAR Event Video Data Recorder

[4] Autos' black-box data turning up in courtrooms, Deborah Sharp, USA TODAY, May 15, 2003.

[5] State Statutes (that reference vehicle event data recorders), Harris Technical Services website

[6] The Use of Event Data Recorders in the Analysis of Real-World Crashes, A. German et al., Proceedings of the Canadian Multidisciplinary Road Safety Conference XII, London, Ontario, Canada, June 10-13, 2001.