ABSTRACT

Electronic data are becoming increasingly prevalent and can be invaluable resources for a collision analysis. Accordingly, the reconstructionist should have a working understanding of what data are available, how they can be used, and what their limitations are. This chapter introduces basic concepts regarding passenger vehicle Event Data Recorder (EDR) data, commercial vehicle Electronic Control Module (ECM) data, and Global Positioning System (GPS) data from telematics or infotainment systems. Limitations of EDR, ECM and GPS data are discussed, including the effects of data asynchrony, truncation, resolution limits, and systematic error. Specific examples illustrating the effects of data reliability are also presented. A bibliography of relevant technical literature is included.