Traffic collision reconstruction

Physics and engineering principles are the basis for these analyses and may involve the use of software for calculations and simulations.

Results from collision reconstructions are also sometimes used for making roads and highways safer, as well as improving safety aspects of motor vehicle designs.

Reconstructions are typically conducted by forensic engineers, specialized units in law enforcement agencies, or private consultants.

The field got more analytical in the 1930s and in 1940 there was the first judicial opinion accepting the analysis of speed through measuring skid length and using that information with the principle of Conservation of Energy.

The product of scanning is a 3D point cloud that can be used to take measurements and create computer models used in the analysis of the collision.

The 3D point clouds and models can also be used for creating visuals to illustrate the analysis and to show views of witnesses and the involved drivers.

The Bosch CDR-Tool is a commercially available tool allowing the investigator to image (download) crash data directly from a supported vehicle.

Some of the recorded pre-crash parameters include vehicle speed, brake status (ON/OFF), throttle position (%), ignition cycles, seat belt status, wheel speeds, steering wheel position (degrees), ABS operation, and others.

Like many other technical activities, collision reconstruction has been revolutionized by the use of powerful, inexpensive computers and specialty software.

After the analysis is completed, forensic engineers compile report findings, diagrams, and animations to form their expert testimony and conclusions relating to the collision.

Forensic animation typically depicts all or part of a collision sequence in a video format so that non-technical parties, such as juries, can easily understand the expert's opinions regarding that event.

Physical evidence at the scene combined with statements from witnesses can give clues as to what type of avoidance occurred.

Damage caused by impact can be evaluated and combined with sliding distance to help determine the motorcycle's speed during the collision sequence.

[13] The Royal Canadian Mounted Police utilize full-time Forensic Collision Reconstructionists and Analysts as a service line.