EDR – Event Data Recorder
An Event Data Recorder (EDR) is a function or device installed in a motor vehicle to record technical vehicle and occupant information for a very brief period before, during and after a crash solely for the purpose of monitoring and assessing vehicle safety system performance.
After a module’s primary functions are complete and where appropriate thresholds are met, data may be recorded as part of the “Event Data Recorder” (EDR) functionality or capability. An “EDR” is not a stand-alone device and the data may not always be recorded. In some situations, there may be nothing to “image” from a module in a vehicle.
EDRs may record:
- information, but only after some physical event like a crash
- vehicle dynamics information and system status for about 5 seconds before a crash
- certain driver inputs for about 5 seconds before a crash
- vehicle crash severity signature
- restraint use and deployment related information
- post-crash data such as the activation of an automatic collision notification (ACN) system
EDRs do NOT record:
- the name of the driver
- audio or video of the crash
- names or the identity of passenger(s)
- the places the car has been driven
- and the systems don’t record information unless there’s been a physical occurrence like a crash
EDR data may aid claim investigation and adjustment by providing unbiased information about the loss such as:
What was the vehicle speed leading up to the impact?
Was the vehicle accelerating, slowing, or braking seconds before impact?
Where occupant(s) were seated, and if they were belted?
Order of impacts during an in-line, multi-vehicle collision?
Was the operator steering left or right leading up to the impact?
What was the severity of the impact (measured in Delta-V)?
Was the vehicle moving or stopped prior to impact?
Was a vehicle truly damaged while parked and unattended?
While the information obtained using the CDR Tool can be calculated using traditional accident reconstruction methods, those calculations sometimes rely on subjective witness statements, police reports and other potentially unreliable information. EDR data has been proven reliable, objective, and unbiased.