Technology is increasingly important in every aspect of our lives, from how we communicate and interact with family and friends to how we conduct business, access information, and shop. In recent years, technology has also revolutionized the auto industry by equipping vehicles with a range of safety technology that can help prevent serious car accidents. Unfortunately, while safety features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection, and forward collision warning can reduce the risk of a serious collision, accidents continue to happen. If you are involved in a car accident, technology can be instrumental in proving that the other driver was at fault.
Despite technology’s advantages to the auto industry, it is not all positive. Smartphones, tablets, and the infotainment systems that newer vehicles are equipped with make it very easy for motorists to become distractedwhile driving. It only takes seconds for a driver to glance at a text, make a phone call, or program an address on the GPS for a devastating accident to occur because their attention is away from the road. In addition, as more vehicles are equipped with advanced safety technology, motorists often rely on these systems to work as intended. However, if there is a glitch in the system or the safety feature malfunctions, the driver may not react quickly enough to avoid a severe car accident.
How Can Technology Help Prove Fault in a Car Accident Case?
If you are involved in a car accident and the other driver was at fault, you may be entitled to financial compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver. However, you will be burdened to prove that the other motorist was negligent and that their negligence caused the accident. While a range of evidence will help prove your claim, including photos from the accident scene, witness statements, and a copy of the police report, you may have access to technology that can provide valuable evidence. The following are examples of technology that can have a significant impact on the outcome of a car accident case:
- Dashcams and surveillance cameras: A growing number of newer vehicles are equipped with dashcams, which often record valuable information from the accident. Even if your car does not have a dash cam, other vehicles in the vicinity may have captured footage from the accident if they have a dash cam. In addition, if homes or businesses in the area have surveillance cameras set up and operating, they may have footage from the accident. This footage must be secured as quickly as possible since many cameras automatically erase footage weekly or daily.
- Smartphones: Often, the device responsible for distracted driving accidents can also provide important information about the accident. Smartphones make it very easy to take pictures of vehicle damage, injuries, debris or skid marks on the road, and other key evidence. There are even apps available now that help you navigate the documentation process. If a vehicle malfunction caused the accident, some apps can monitor and report vehicle maintenance issues. For example, if the other driver received a low tire pressure warning but ignored it, you can access this information if a tire blowout caused the accident.
- Event data recorders (EDRs): These devices are often equipped in newer vehicles. Like a “black box” in airplanes, EDRs record events leading up to an accident, including whether the brakes were applied, the speed at the moment of impact, the steering angle, and whether the seatbelts were used. The data collected by the EDR can help prove which driver caused the accident, even if both parties have significant recollections of the accidents and there were no witnesses to corroborate either party’s statement.
- Accident reconstruction: This process used to be performed manually; however, computer software programs now create 3D simulations of accidents. This provides valuable information about the events leading up to the accident, which can help support your claim.
- Electronic medical records: Medical imaging, including x-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs, will determine the nature and severity of your injuries. They can also help diagnose injuries like broken bones, internal bleeding, and injuries that may not be obvious at the scene of the accident, like concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). When you file a personal injury claim, you must prove that you suffered injuries and that your injuries were caused by the accident. Results from medical imaging and copies of electronic medical records will prove the documentation necessary to prove your claim.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help Me With My Case?
While you can access certain technology, a dedicated car accident lawyer can secure copies of surveillance cameras, data from EDRs, and accident reconstruction reports that you may be unable to access. In addition to collecting this valuable evidence, your lawyer will interpret the data and present the evidence that will most effectively prove your claim.
The Cincinnati Car Accident Lawyers at Wolterman Law Office Advocate for Victims of Car Accidents
If you or someone you know was seriously injured in a car accident, it is highly recommended that you contact the Cincinnati car accident lawyers at Wolterman Law Office as soon as possible. We will investigate the details of your case, ensure that your legal rights are protected, and take advantage of the technology that will establish the events leading up to the accident and identify the at-fault party. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 513-488-1135 or contact us online. Our office is located in Loveland, Ohio where we serve clients in Hamilton County, Fairfield, Norwood, and Forest Park.