Truck accidents are an unfortunate part of the roadways, and sometimes the reasons behind these crashes can seem more mysterious than they actually are. One of the most commonly cited reasons for truck accidents, particularly on highways like I-22, is the “sun glare” excuse. Drivers claim that the setting or rising sun impaired their ability to see properly, leading to poor decision-making, slow reactions, or failure to stop in time.
Brad Morris
Attorney
While this explanation is plausible in some circumstances, it’s not always the full story. In fact, advancements in technology, such as Event Data Recorders (EDRs) and log data, have made it easier to uncover the true causes of truck accidents. These tools offer invaluable insights into the behavior of the truck before and during the accident, which can help challenge the sun glare excuse.
The Role of ECM Data in Truck Accident Investigation 
Event Data Recorders, also known as “black boxes” in the world of trucking, have revolutionized the way truck accidents are investigated. These devices record detailed data about the truck’s operation in the moments leading up to a crash. The data gathered by these devices includes information on speed, braking patterns, and even whether or not the truck was using cruise control.
When a trucking company or driver claims that an accident was caused by sun glare, the ECM (Engine Control Module) data can help challenge this claim. By analyzing this data, we can learn whether the truck was speeding, braking sharply, or not braking at all. These behaviors can point to issues like driver inattention or mechanical failure, rather than sun glare being the primary cause.
The ECM data doesn’t just provide insight into the truck’s actions during the crash. It also shows the truck’s performance leading up to the accident. For example, if the truck was cruising at a high speed or failing to adjust speed for changing road conditions, this data can reveal that the driver’s actions, not environmental factors like sun glare, were the true cause of the crash.
Log Data and Its Significance in Accident Investigations
In addition to the data collected by the ECM, truck log data offers another layer of insight into what happened before the accident. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are mandatory in many commercial trucks, and they provide a detailed record of driving hours, rest breaks, and the driver’s schedule.
When a truck accident occurs and the sun glare excuse is raised, the first thing to check is the driver’s log data. If the driver had been on the road for an extended period without taking the required breaks, fatigue could have played a role in the accident. This is particularly important in accidents that happen during hours when the driver should have been well-rested, but instead, they may have been pushing their limits, driving tired and unable to react quickly, even if sun glare was a factor.
This data allows investigators to verify the driver’s schedule, which can either support or contradict the sun glare excuse. A tired or overworked driver may have been less able to respond to the glare of the sun or other visual impairments caused by environmental factors.
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Challenging the Sun Glare Excuse with Data
The “sun glare” excuse is often raised after a truck accident that occurs early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is low on the horizon and can impair a driver’s vision. However, the sun glare argument doesn’t always hold up under scrutiny. Using both ECM and log data, we can evaluate whether the sun’s position and intensity were actually enough to cause a significant impairment to the driver’s vision, or if other factors were at play.
One way to challenge the sun glare excuse is by reviewing the ECM data to see if the truck was operating in an unsafe manner. For instance, was the truck speeding, failing to brake when approaching a curve, or not maintaining an adequate following distance from the vehicle ahead? If the data reveals that the truck was speeding or driving erratically, it’s clear that the driver was at fault, and sun glare may not have been a major factor in the crash.
Further, analyzing the driver’s log data helps us understand whether fatigue was an issue. If the driver had been on the road for too long, this could indicate that exhaustion, not sun glare, was the main reason the driver failed to react appropriately. Additionally, combining the data with accident reconstruction analysis helps confirm the sun glare’s actual role—if any—compared to other factors.
How This Data Helps with Legal Claims and Truck Accident Lawsuits
In the realm of legal claims, having access to ECM and log data can be incredibly powerful. Insurance companies, defense lawyers, and trucking companies often try to avoid liability for truck accidents by blaming external factors like sun glare. This tactic may help reduce their responsibility in the eyes of the court. However, with data from the ECM and the logs, you can provide strong evidence that supports your claim and challenges the idea that sun glare was the cause.
As a truck accident lawyer at Brad Morris Law Firm, we understand how to use this data to strengthen your case. Whether you’re dealing with the trucking company’s claims or fighting to prove that the driver or the company was at fault, we will examine the data closely to build a compelling case. Trucking companies and their insurers may claim that a sun glare blinded the driver, but the data from the truck’s systems will likely tell a different story.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, especially one where the trucking company or driver blames sun glare, there are a few important steps to take:
Seek medical attention immediately
Your health and well-being come first. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s always best to get checked by a medical professional right after the accident.
Gather evidence from the scene
Take photographs of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, any visible damage, and any signs that might support your case. If the sun glare was a factor, look for evidence like the time of day and the direction of the sun.
Get the truck’s ECM and log data
This is one of the most important pieces of evidence you can gather. The data will provide crucial information on the truck’s speed, braking behavior, and the driver’s schedule. It will also show if the driver was operating the truck irresponsibly, regardless of sun glare.
Why Brad Morris Law Firm Is the Right Choice for Your Truck Accident Case
At Brad Morris Law Firm, we specialize in representing victims of truck accidents. We know that these cases can be complex, and trucking companies often try to deflect blame onto external factors like sun glare. However, we have the tools and experience to fight for justice and hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable. With access to critical data, accident reconstruction experts, and legal know-how, we can give your case the best chance of success.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident and need help, contact Brad Morris Law Firm today. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options.