The EDRs only record data in the period that starts just before the crash and ends subsequently, not storing information about normal, everyday driving.
"Broad EDR application and collection of data will help save lives and prevent injuries,” said Michael J. Robinson, Vice President, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy.
Representative Gene Green is currently developing a project that would direct the NHTSA to make EDRs compulsory for all future cars and trucks.
“It is essential that decisions on important safety issues be supported by the best available data, and we are convinced that EDRs can help that process,”Robinson added. "We agree with those who called for mandatory installation of and greater use of the data from EDRs during recent Congressional hearings.”
“EDRs help us understand vehicle control systems, and more importantly, provide critical crash information to help improve structural and restraint system designs across the vehicle fleet,” said Adrian Lund, president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The crash information stored in the EDR will be provided to state authorities, if they request it, in order to help solving investigations. The data will also improve the National Highway and Traffic Safety Association real-world statistics.
The previous generation EDR has been installed on most GM vehicles starting with the 1990 model range. The 1995 model year GM light duty line-up was the first to have the equipment fitted as standard. Since 1999, GM vehicles feature a device that allows for limited public retrieval of the recorded data.
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