Have you ever heard of a black box? Typically associated with airplanes, this device records crucial information after a crash. But what about cars? Do cars have black boxes too? Let’s dive into this topic and find out!
What Is a (Car) Black Box?
The black box, formally known as the event data recorder (EDR), is a sturdy and crash-resistant recording device. Originally found in airplanes, it serves the purpose of recording events leading up to accidents, aiding investigators in determining the cause and preventing similar incidents in the future. And yes, cars now have black boxes too!
Does My Car Have a Black Box?
If you own a car from the 21st century, chances are you have a black box. Major American car brands like Buick, Chevy, and Cadillac started fitting black boxes in their vehicles as far back as 1994. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been collecting car accident data using black boxes since the early 2000s. And if your car is from 2013 or later, you can almost guarantee the presence of a black box. In 2013, less than 5 percent of new cars were without one, and since 2014, black boxes have been mandated in all new vehicles.
If you’re unsure whether your car has a black box and it’s not a 2014 or later model, you can check a provided list. Simply consult the list and if your car is not on it, you can assume you do not have a black box. But if you do have one, where is it? It’s most likely located behind your steering wheel and dashboard, although it’s not easily accessible. Additionally, there’s no way to turn it off, and only authorized individuals can plug into the connections and retrieve the data.
What Does the Black Box Record?
Who will be plugging into your car’s black box? Well, that depends. Similar to airplane black boxes, the purpose of a car’s black box is to prevent future crashes. It records data such as your car’s speed, throttle position, brake application, airbag deployment, seatbelt use, steering angles, and other relevant factors 20 seconds before, during, and after a crash. This information helps manufacturers determine if the crash was due to human error or a mechanical failure in the system.
Why Does My Car Have a Black Box? Who Has Legal Access To Black Box Information?
Some car owners may worry about others using their black box data in ways that don’t benefit them. For instance, the police might access the data when investigating an accident, or insurance companies might use it to adjust claims. Isn’t the data on the black box personal and private?
The answer to this question is complicated. Accessing your black box data is not something just anyone can do. A crash data retrieval system is required, costing as much as $20,000. It also needs to be plugged into the onboard diagnostic port under your dashboard. Car manufacturers, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and law enforcement have access to this equipment. But can they legally obtain this data at any time?
Currently, only fifteen states have laws specifying who can access crash data recorder information from your car and under what circumstances. In these states, accessing the data without your permission requires a court order. Insurance companies are not allowed to use the data to set your rates without your consent.
However, in states without clear laws, you may have to fight to keep your data private. If someone comes with a court order, you have little recourse. You cannot delete the recording, disable, or turn off the box. While you could put a lock on the diagnostic port, law enforcement can force you to remove it with a legal court order.
Keep in mind that the black box primarily exists for your benefit and protection. In the event of an accident that is not your fault, the data could help prove your lack of liability. It can also provide valuable information about your car to prevent similar accidents in the future.
To learn more about your specific state’s laws regarding the black box, visit the National Conference of State Legislatures. These laws will likely evolve as more cars with black boxes hit the road and data collection and analysis methods improve. It’s essential to understand who can access your data in the event of a crash and the extent of your ability to deny access if you feel it’s necessary.
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