Accidents involving large commercial vehicles are all too common and can be particularly devastating since fatalities are more probable with these types of crashes. Victims of truck accidents may have difficulty proving fault, without witnesses or other types of evidence to draw from. Fortunately, a device that is making its way into semi-trucks nationwide may help investigators and accident victims paint a clearer picture of the devastating event.
What is VOB Radar?
Vehicle-on-board radar, also referred to as VOB radar, is a type of collision warning system that serves a similar purpose to the black box on an airplane. These systems provide important information about the truck’s performance prior to the accident, including rate of speed, turn rate and gear in operation at the time of the crash. The data can be used to reconstruct the accident, giving drivers, police investigators and attorney a better idea of who was at fault.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been recommending the addition of these systems into commercial vehicles since 1997. In 2008, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) created standards for these recorders, and two years later, those standards were agreed upon by NHTSA, the Society of Automotive Engineers and truck manufacturers. Many trucks now use the systems.
Unfortunately, victims of truck accidents often don’t realize that such evidence exists to help them receive compensation and justice for their injuries. It is important to talk to a NY truck accident attorney who is experienced in this type of crash, who can advise a victim of information like recording devices that might be available.
