Collision Investigators' Essential Tool: EDR "Black Box" Scan & Report Generation
Investigating vehicle collisions requires thorough data analysis. The CrashScan app, used with an OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth adapter, provides a streamlined solution for accessing and interpreting data from a vehicle's Event Data Recorder (EDR), commonly known as the "black box," where supported. This empowers investigators to identify, extract, and understand crucial accident information.
Vehicle Compatibility:
CrashScan supports a wide range of vehicles (over 3000 year/make/model combinations globally). Check compatibility here: https://collisionsciences.ca/reports/check_support/
Comprehensive Accident Reports:
Successful CrashScan reports offer detailed insights into impact severity, direction (front, rear, or side), and contextual information, including:
- Impact Severity Classification: Minor, moderate, or severe.
- EDR Trigger Threshold Data: Details on the conditions that activated the EDR.
- Pre-Crash Data (5 Seconds): Speed, brake pedal and accelerator use, and steering input.
- Occupant Information: Number of occupants and seatbelt usage.
- Estimated Repair Costs: A projected economic cost of vehicle repairs.
- Structural Damage Assessment: Indication of potential structural crush damage.
- Injury Risk Assessment: Whiplash risk and injury duration estimations based on acceleration data, scientific literature, and databases like the National Automotive Sampling System (NASS).
- Contextual G-Force Comparisons: Comparison of recorded g-forces to those experienced in everyday activities.
Video Tutorials:
- App Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIbxGf7IPWw&t=2s
- Setup Guide: Search "CrashScan Setup" on YouTube or use this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAnix9tLM9Y
Legal Considerations (EDR Data & Privacy):
- Canada: No specific legislation; data is considered diagnostic and non-private, though obtaining consent is best practice.
- United States: The federal Driver Privacy Act of 2015 and statutes in seventeen states (Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington) regulate EDR data access, typically requiring owner/policyholder consent.
User Consent:
Downloading the CrashScan app constitutes consent to its installation, updates, and data collection practices as outlined in the privacy statement. Uninstall to withdraw consent. Contact CollisionSciences.ca for more information.
Version 1.25.5 (Updated Nov 4, 2024): Minor bug fixes.
