Sam Sorich, vice president for the PCI western region, said the group wants disclosure so an insurer can investigate accident claims.

"We think this would help insurers settle the claim more fairly with better information." It is consistent with policy language requiring insureds to cooperate with carriers by providing information, said Mr. Sorich.

The data involved is recorded just prior to accidents.

"We believe this data should be made available to insurance companies to improve claims handling and help prevent fraud," said Kate Diehl, legislative advocate for PCI.

The legislation, AB 315, was introduced in March.

It would only permit release of black box information when the vehicle owner consents, by court order or for research or repair purposes. Violating the act would be a misdemeanor.

"PCI and its members recognize that consumers are concerned about the privacy of their financial and health information, and accordingly, property-casualty insurers strictly adhere to all relevant federal and state privacy laws.

"Nevertheless, to assure that crash claims are administered efficiently and fairly, property-casualty insurers should not be precluded from having access to data from the Event Data Recorders--commonly called "black boxes,"' said Ms. Diehl.

PCI said EDRs can benefit everyone from drivers to traffic and safety-control officials, law enforcement agencies, vehicle manufacturers, repair shops and insurers. EDR data can help quickly verify or disprove claimant or witness accounts and help determine whether alleged injuries are consistent with the nature of the collision, PCI added.