Collision Investigators' Essential Tool: EDR "Black Box" Scan and Reporting
Investigating vehicle collisions requires efficient data retrieval. The CrashScan app, used with an OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth adapter, accesses and interprets data from a vehicle's Event Data Recorder (EDR), commonly known as the "black box," where supported. This aids investigators in verifying insurance claims and identifying potentially questionable collisions.
Vehicle Compatibility:
CrashScan supports over 3000 vehicle year/make/model combinations globally. Check compatibility here: https://collisionsciences.ca/reports/check_support/
Comprehensive Accident Reports:
Successful CrashScan reports detail impact severity, direction (front, rear, side), and contextual information including:
- Impact classification (minor, moderate, severe)
- EDR trigger thresholds
- 5 seconds of pre-crash data (speed, braking, acceleration, steering)
- Occupant count and seatbelt usage
- Estimated repair costs
- Potential structural damage
- Injury risk assessment (whiplash, injury duration)
- Contextual g-force comparisons to daily activities
*Injury risk algorithms utilize stored acceleration data, research articles, and databases like the National Automotive Sampling System (NASS).
Video Tutorials:
- App Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIbxGf7IPWw&t=2s
- Setup Guide: Search YouTube for "CrashScan Setup" or use this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAnix9tLM9Y
EDR Data and Privacy Legislation:
- Canada: No specific legislation; data is considered diagnostic and non-private, though insurer consent is best practice.
- United States: The federal Driver Privacy Act of 2015 and statutes in 17 states (Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington) regulate EDR data access, generally requiring vehicle owner/policyholder consent.
End-User Consent:
Downloading the CrashScan app implies consent to its installation, updates, and data collection practices as detailed in the privacy statement. Uninstall the app to withdraw consent. Contact CollisionSciences.ca for more information.
Version 1.25.5 (November 4, 2024):
Minor bug fixes.
