New York State Police will have a cutting-edge tool at hand when they respond to major accidents.
Troopers recently tested out a new computer system specifically equipped for grabbing information out of tractor-trailers after crashes.
Daniel Bates, a technical lieutenant who oversees the State Police's collision reconstruction unit, says the technology will allow investigators to gather information after accidents more quickly and accurately.
The computers will allow State Police to pull all types of information from a tractor-trailer after an crash, including speeds, RPMs and detailed braking information.
Bates said the technology will allow troopers to track a driver's history while in the truck, helping investigators look into driving patterns before accidents.
Before the new system, troopers had to borrow computers from tractor-trailer dealers or manufacturers. Unlike onboard computers for cars or SUVs, each tractor-trailer's system can be unique and have parts made by several companies, Bates said.
Troopers tested the computers in a parking lot at the Harriman State Office Campus, driving up to 35 mph, braking hard and then testing the software.
Each troop of the State Police will have the computers on hand and at least one trooper trained to use them. The equipment cost roughly $232,000 and was paid for through a state grant.
