Leveraging Event Data Retrieval as an Auto Claims Adjuster

Key Takeaways  

This article provides auto claims adjusters with an overview of: 

• The event data retrieval process 
• The types of information a vehicle’s Event Data Recorder (EDR) may capture 
• Practical applications of EDR data in auto claims 

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Resolving auto insurance claims often requires evaluating information from multiple sources. Physical evidence from the scene can provide valuable details, while witness statements may offer additional context. Vehicle data—such as changes in speed, braking, and more—can fill other gaps, supplementing the information already collected to help you verify details and reach fair conclusions. 

Event data retrieval offers an objective, data-driven method for gathering these facts by extracting insights from a vehicle’s Event Data Recorder (EDR). Let’s explore how this technology not only delivers reliable information but can also serve as compelling evidence in litigation. 

After a vehicle collision, the physical condition of the vehicle and witness accounts may not cover all the information needed to confidently settle an auto claim.

How Does Event Data Retrieval Work?

Most modern vehicles record operational data immediately before, during, and sometimes after a crash. The function within a device in a vehicle that records this data is known as an Event Data Recorder (EDR). Event data retrieval is the process by which experts download EDR data from a vehicle. They can typically perform these downloads without the need for EDR removal, though severely damaged vehicles may necessitate disassembling the interior to access the airbag control module. 

What Can an EDR Download Tell Auto Claims Adjusters? 

An EDR download can provide an array of metrics. The data may include, but is not limited to: 

• Recorded speed prior to impact  
• Delta-V of the crash  
• Whether cruise control was in use  
• The vehicle’s gear selector position (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low)  
• Steering, accelerator, and brake information  
• Airbag deployments 
• Whether a passenger was present in the front seat  
• Seat belt status of the driver and front passenger
• Vehicle odometer reading at the time of the crash  
• The date and time of the crash 

The full utility of EDR data as it relates to understanding a crash often lies in accurate interpretation. Experts with specialized training in crash data analysis can consult with auto claims adjusters about what EDR data means so that they can make more informed claims decisions.

EDR data can reveal critical information about airbags, speed, and a range of other factors that could have contributed to a collision.  

Verifying Crash Details 

The application of event data retrieval insights can vary depending on the specifics of a claim, but in general, they can help verify the details of a crash. The data extracted through this process can validate or challenge a witness’s or policyholder’s account of the incident and clarify scenarios where the sequence of events remains unclear.

Analysis of EDR data may reveal whether the insured party or another driver took action to avoid the collision. With this level of information, auto claims adjusters are better positioned to reach fair, accurate resolutions. 

Event Data Retrieval Use Cases for Auto Claims Adjusters

The potential applications of event data retrieval for auto claims adjusters are as diverse as the scenarios they encounter. That said, this service may prove especially useful in claims involving conflicting accounts, an unknown order of events, or a vehicle hit while parked. A claim with a single-vehicle event in which only one person’s account is available may also benefit from event data retrieval.

Additionally, when a policyholder attributes a collision to mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes, unexpected acceleration, or another vehicle malfunction, EDR data may either corroborate or challenge these claims. If litigation arises, raw EDR data may be admissible as evidence when properly collected, preserved, authenticated, and presented. 

Securely storing raw data from EDR downloads can be crucial for future litigation or subrogation proceedings. 

Turn to the Experts for Vehicle Data Acquisition 

EDR data can help streamline auto claims, but specialized expertise is required to image and analyze it. Mecanica Scientific Services, part of the Alpine Intel suite of services, offers innovative solutions to clients who need to understand the causes and events of any vehicle collision—including EDR downloads and analysis, forensic video services, crash reconstruction, and more. Trust Mecanica Scientific Services for dependable insights and expert support on your next auto claim. Submit an assignment today. 

 

Engineering services are provided by or subcontracted to Alpine Intel Commercial Solutions, LLC, Alpine Intel Commercial Solutions, PLLC, Donan Engineering, LLC, Donan Engineering NC, PLLC, or Donan Forensic, LP.   

Alpine Intel’s content is meant to inform and educate readers using general terms and descriptions. They do not replace expert evaluations that determine facts and details related to each unique claim.