Accident Reconstruction

The goal of accident reconstruction is to determine the events of an accident and identify the causal factors. Our firm has over 30 years of experience investigating, analyzing, and identifying what really happened in an accident, then presenting the evidence clearly.

Our consulting scientists and engineers have reconstructed accident cases from the predominately vehicular cases (generally involving automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, pedestrians, or even buses or tractor trailers) to cases involving cable cars, forklifts and other heavy equipment, as well as elevators and escalators.

The investigation phase of accident reconstruction involves compiling all available evidence from skid mark measurements, photos at the scene, data extraction from any Event Data Recorders (EDR aka "black boxes"), physical evidence (the vehicles, seat belts, tires, airbags, etc.) inspected in detail, and of lesser value, witness statements and reports. After gathering all the evidence, the accident is recreated on paper, and in computer-aided animations.

The most important scientific elements when evaluating a reconstruction are the laws of physics, momentum, impulse, weight, velocity, drag factor, coefficient of restitution, Delta-V or change in velocity and crush. The application of the knowledge of physics, engineering, Newtonian principles, and other relevant expertise (such as biomechanics and human factors) are key to determining the actual facts of what happened in an accident. The personal experience of the reconstruction expert is also vital. In accident reconstruction experience really does matter.

Finally there is the presentation of the reconstruction and conclusions. Our associates are experienced in providing expert witness testimony that is clear and understandable—taking complex concepts and illustrating them in everyday terms—to judge, jury and attorneys. We present the facts and serve the court with honesty and integrity.

» Read about Biomechanics analysis in accident reconstruction.