Crash Data Retrieval

Overview

Many vehicles on the road today can record important data when the vehicle is in a crash. The vehicles store this information in an Event Data Recorder (EDR), which is part of the airbag module. VMAR is able to retrieve this data from most vehicles that are model year 2013 and newer, as well as many vehicles older than that, even as far back as vehicles manufactured in 1990s!

We have investigators who are certified in the retrieval and analysis of this data, with thousands of retrievals already performed. The data stored in an EDR often includes pre-impact speeds, changes in velocity (Delta V), whether a seatbelt was buckled, the amount of braking and acceleration prior to impact, front passenger seat occupant status, and much more. This information is not only critical in analyzing high-speed impacts, it is very beneficial in determining injury potential for a low velocity impact (LVI). Some vehicles can record information from impacts with very low Delta V’s, even below 1 mph in some cases.

The data, or lack of data, stored in an EDR can corroborate or disprove claims of vehicle damage occurring when the vehicle was parked and unoccupied. Data is often saved in the EDR for a long period of time. However, there are some vehicles that will only store data for a limited amount of time or the data can be overwritten by a subsequent impact. Therefore, imaging data from the EDR may be a time sensitive matter.

When You Need to Know . . .

  • How fast was the vehicle traveling at and just prior to the collision?
  • Did the driver apply the brakes before the collision and how many seconds of braking occurred?
  • Did the driver take any evasive action before the collision, such as swerving, or did the collision occur while the vehicle driver was turning?
  • Was the driver or passenger wearing a seatbelt?
  • Was there an occupant in the front passenger seat of the vehicle?
  • What was the percent of throttle just prior to the accident?

Detail of Crash Data Retrieval Investigation and Analysis Service

  • Download of data stored in the airbag control module (ACM), powertrain control module (PCM), sensing and diagnostic module (SDM), restraint control module (RCM), airbag control unit (ACU), or supplemental restraint system module (SRS) using the Bosch Crash Data Retrieval System, Hyundai or Kia EDR tools, Tesla EDR tool, or other manufacturer proprietary tools
  • Interpretation of the downloaded data
  • Thorough photo documentation of inspection, investigation, and download process
  • Establish proper chain of custody and evidence storage (when needed)
  • Coordination and file documentation
  • Preparation of a fully detailed written report

For more information about the Crash Data Retrieval System (including what it is, how we use it, and what it can reveal about an accident), please see the following video:

Our 21 Day
Guarantee

In the world of claims adjusting we know that you usually have only a 30-day window in which to determine the merits of a claim. That's why we promise to handle your assignment and get the completed report into your hands within 21 calendar days.

And we back our promise with this guarantee:

If we do not get your assignment completed within 21 calendar days, then we cut your cost in half.

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