For trucking companies and drivers, defending against liability claims can be particularly challenging. However, electronic logging devices (ELDs) provide a valuable tool for building a strong defense. ELDs automatically record various data points about a truck’s operation, which can be instrumental in demonstrating compliance with regulations and reconstructing the events leading up to an incident.
At Fahl & Donaldson, we leverage all available evidence to protect our clients’ interests. Our skilled attorneys are skilled in using ELD data to support our defense strategies, ensuring we provide the best possible representation for truck drivers and trucking companies facing legal challenges.
Using ELDs to Prove Compliance with Hours-of-Service Regulations
One of the primary functions of ELDs is to confirm compliance with hours of service (HOS) regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue by limiting the number of hours a driver can operate a vehicle without taking mandated breaks.
Plaintiffs often allege that driver fatigue contributed to their truck accident, and in these cases, ELD data can provide irrefutable evidence of the driver’s compliance with HOS rules, thereby countering claims of fatigue-related negligence.
Other data recorded by ELDs includes:
Driving Time
Each driver logs in to the ELD at the start of their shift, ensuring data corresponds to the correct driver. ELDs monitor and record the amount of time a driver spends actively operating the vehicle, tracking the start and end times of each driving period to ensure compliance with HOS regulations. They also record off-duty, resting, and break periods, demonstrating that drivers adhere to mandatory rest periods and do not exceed the maximum allowable driving hours.
Vehicle Movement and Location
ELDs provide real-time GPS data, recording the vehicle’s location at regular intervals, which is useful for reconstructing the vehicle’s route and movements. They capture the vehicle’s speed and direction, monitor engine status, and provide context for analyzing driving patterns.
Diagnostic Information
ELDs capture diagnostic information and fault codes from the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM), indicating mechanical issues or malfunctions. They also record malfunctions or diagnostic events related to the ELD itself, documenting any discrepancies or interruptions in data logging.
How Lawyers Use ELDs to Defend Truck Accident Cases in Texas
In many truck accident cases, determining fault and liability is a complex and contentious process. The data collected from ELDs can be fundamental for reconstructing an accurate depiction of the events that occurred in a trucking accident. Your attorney can utilize the information recorded by an ELD to create a detailed timeline of the crash.
Your lawyer, often with the assistance of an accident reconstructionist expert, can analyze data to determine the exact movements of the truck before, during, and after the incident.
ELD data also has the ability to highlight the role of external factors in a crash. For example, if the truck accident occurred due to sudden changes in road conditions, such as a sharp turn or unexpected obstacle, ELD data can provide evidence of the driver’s attempts to navigate these challenges. This objective data can establish that the driver was not at fault and the accident was caused by circumstances beyond their control.
Why Choose Fahl & Donaldson for Your Truck Defense Case?
At Fahl & Donaldson, we understand the critical role that ELD data plays in defending truck drivers and trucking companies in Texas. Our attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of ELD technology and have a proven track record of successfully using this data to build strong defense cases. We combine our extensive legal knowledge with a deep understanding of the trucking industry, ensuring we can effectively advocate for our clients.
When you choose Fahl & Donaldson, you benefit from our commitment to providing personalized and strategic legal representation. We take the time to thoroughly analyze ELD data and other evidence, crafting a defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your case. Our goal is to protect your interests and achieve the best possible outcome. For a consultation, please call (346) 241-7355 or complete our contact form.