Automakers will need to disclose 'black boxes'

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Devices designed to record events before, during and after a crash

By KEN THOMAS
Associated Press Writer
Updated: 11 minutes ago

WASHINGTON - Automakers will be required to tell owners if their vehicle has an event data recorder, commonly called a "black box," and collect uniform data from the devices, the government said Monday.

In the seconds before, during and after a crash, event data recorders can provide information about a vehicle's speed and acceleration, whether air bags were deployed, the brakes were applied or seat belts were being worn.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said beginning with 2011 model year vehicles, automakers will need to disclose the existence of the technology in owners manuals.

The data recorders also will need to be more durable to protect the information during a crash while requiring the auto industry to collect a uniform amount of data to help in the development of new safety regulations.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14453287/from/RS.2/