Modern commercial trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic recording devices that capture critical data about driver behavior and vehicle performance. This “black box” evidence can prove exactly what happened in the seconds before a crash—and often reveals hours-of-service violations, speeding, and other negligence. But this evidence can be lost or destroyed if you don’t act quickly.
What Are Truck Black Boxes?
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
Since December 2017, the FMCSA has required most commercial motor vehicles to use ELDs to track driver hours of service. Under 49 CFR Part 395, Subpart B, these devices record:
- Engine running time and vehicle movement
- Miles driven
- Driver identification and duty status
- Location information at specified intervals
Event Data Recorders (EDRs)
EDRs capture detailed vehicle performance data including speed, brake application, throttle position, and steering input in the moments before a crash.
Exposing Hours-of-Service Violations
Federal regulations under 49 CFR Part 395 limit driving time:
- 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour on-duty limit
- 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits
Illinois Laws Governing Truck Accident Claims
Statute of Limitations
Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Modified Comparative Negligence
Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, you can recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault.
Related Truck Accident Resources
Free Consultation: Time Is Critical
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, contact Phillips Law Offices immediately. The sooner we can send preservation letters and begin evidence collection, the better your chances of securing the black box data that could prove your case.
Call Phillips Law Offices at (312) 346-4262 today. Don’t let critical evidence disappear.
