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Jeffrey Ball, Ph.D., P.E. Dr. Jeff Ball specialized in mechanical engineering design , motor vehicle accident reconstruction , and patent infringement evaluation. After graduating from the United States Air Force Academy as a pilot, Dr. Ball continued his educational journey and attained his M.S. in Engineering from Purdue University and a Ph.D. in Engineering Science from Oxford University. Soon after, he returned to his alma mater as both a flight instructor and a Professor of Mechanical Engineering. He taught courses on machine design, product design, automotive engineering, thermodynamics, statics, strength of materials , and dynamics. As a pilot, Dr. Ball flew supersonic fighters and gliders and later instructed young cadets. During his time with the United States Air Force, Dr. Ball also supervised Air Force cadets in the design, testing, and operation of race cars for the Society of Automotive Engineers’ (SAE) Formula Competition and the SAE Mini Baja Competition. He also conducted research, modeling, and testing on internal combustion engine performance and directed a research project for the USAF on alternative powerplants for unmanned aerial vehicles. Finally, as a graduate of the USAF Accident Board President Course, he was certified to conduct aviation accident investigation for the Air Force. ​ Jeff passed away on July 12, 2020. He will be missed but not forgotten. ​ ​ ​ ​

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Reconstruction Commuter, Bicycle, Skating, and Electric Scooter Crash Analysis Pedestrian and bicycle accident reconstruction requires a very specialized skill set in order to accurately reconstruct the incident. Often times, there is very little physical evidence as a result of the crash, or the physical evidence is not properly documented by emergency personnel. Under these circumstances, the keen eye and experience of a well-qualified accident reconstructionist is crucial to understand what happened, and why. Veritech’s forensic engineers are experienced with reconstructing all types of vehicle accidents involving pedestrians, bicyclists, skateboarders and in-line skaters. ​ ​ Pedestrian Accidents Veritech engineers are experienced with reconstructing all types of pedestrian versus vehicle accidents, including those involving automobiles , semi tractor-trailers , trains , and even construction equipment . These types of accidents can be very serious or even fatal, and therefore require special attention when performing a reconstruction. For example, one of the most significant reconstruction issues is related to the substantial weight difference between a pedestrian and a vehicle. Due to the large difference in weight, it can be difficult to determine the speed of a vehicle at impact with a pedestrian using standard accident reconstruction techniques. ​ ​ Because of this, methods that are unique to pedestrian accidents have been developed. These methods take into consideration the geometry of the impacting vehicle’s front end, the location of the vehicle’s point of contact on the pedestrian’s body, and even consider whether or not the pedestrian became airborne as a result of the impact. Pre-impact visibility and environmental factors also play a significant role in these accidents, and therefore should be accounted for appropriately. ​ ​ Skateboards, Longboards, and Inline skates Veritech’s forensic engineers have experience in reconstructing collisions where pedestrians are riding on skateboards, longboards, in-line skates, and other wheeled sports equipment. The performance characteristics of a skateboarder or roller-blader involve much faster traveling speeds (and likely subsequent impact speeds) compared to a walking pedestrian. Additionally, the acceleration and braking rates for a pedestrian on a skateboard are also much different than a walking or running pedestrian. Also, the height of a pedestrian’s center of gravity changes when riding, and furthermore, the center of gravity can change depending on the posture of the pedestrian while riding. ​ ​ Even the action of riding and propelling forward will result in a dynamic position of the pedestrian’s center of mass, producing a different accident situation than a simple walking subject. Veritech has performed real-world tests on a number of subjects while riding skateboards and longboards. From these tests, performance characteristics unique to skateboards have been developed for the sole purpose of aiding in forensic engineering and accident reconstruction. ​ ​ Bicycle and Electric Scooter Accident Reconstruction Perhaps the most common type of mechanized transportation for commuters, aside from automobiles, could be riding bicycles. Bicycles provide a user the ability to achieve significantly faster speeds than walking. What’s more, riding bicycles is a favorite recreational activity of many individuals. When things go wrong, bicyclists crash, sometimes individually from a loss of control and other times from contact with another rider or automobile. Bicycle accidents can be very serious, largely due to the increased speeds involved but also due to the loss of stability during a crash. While many on-road accidents consist of impacts with automobiles or stationary objects, off-road accidents can be just as severe, resulting in injuries from contact with rough, rocky surfaces. ​ A relatively new mode of transportation involves the use of electric bicycles (also known as “E-bikes”) and electric scooters for commuting and recreation. These two-wheeled vehicles are powered by a small electric motor with an onboard battery and have the capability of reaching 20 mph or faster. Many metropolitan areas are equipped with fleets of electric scooters and bicycles that are available for rent and can be used by virtually anyone. Rental companies such as Lime and Bird offer fleets of electric scooters and bicycles in many major cities across the country. These units are very popular and provide a quick and easy way for pedestrians to commute through congested city streets. Unfortunately, due to the relative ease in acquiring one of these rental units, many riders operate them without the use of a helmet or other safety equipment. Their usage on busy city streets around walking commuters and automobiles results in frequent accidents, and when an electric scooter or E-bike operator crashes without a helmet for head protection, injuries can be serious. Veritech has experience in reconstructing all types of bicycle, e-bike, and electric scooter accidents occurring on both on and off-road surfaces, and has developed their expertise due in part to their level of riding proficiency and extensive training in rider dynamics. Please contact one of our licensed professional engineers at 303-660-4395 to discuss your case and receive a free initial consultation with honest and candid comments. Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E. Principal Engineer Joe Tremblay, P.E., D.F.E. Senior Engineer

ATV Accident Reconstruction ATV Accident Reconstruction and Failure Analysis by a Certified Forensic Engineer All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), also known as 4-wheelers or Quads, were introduced to the American marketplace in the mid-1980’s as an alternative to the highly unstable 3-wheeled vehicles (ATCs) which preceded them. Since their introduction, the popularity of ATVs has steadily increased, at least until the recent rise of the UTV / ROV market. One of the reasons for the popularity of ATVs is that they are relatively easy to ride and can be enjoyed by a wide range of the population. The rapid increase in popularity has led to two distinctive issues worthy of consideration when conducting an ATV accident reconstruction: ​ ​ Issue 1: The continued strong demand for ATV off-road vehicles has resulted in an ever increasing number of consumer choices from both reputable manufacturers in the US and Japan as well as the arrival of cheap Chinese knock-offs. With the rush to get their products to market, some manufacturers have taken shortcuts in the development process. Unfortunately, these shortcuts may manifest themselves as hidden safety traps for the average consumer. Whether it’s a defective design or improper manufacturing, it is often the consumer who ultimately discovers the defect, which can result in an injury during foreseeable use of the product. ​ ​ Issue 2: The second issue arising out of the rapid increase in popularity of ATVs is that as more and more manufacturers introduce ATVs, more of the public gains exposure to these vehicles. Unlike an off-road motorcycle , ATVs offer the rider a sense that they can be ridden in relatively difficult terrain by most entry level operators. The ease of use, especially for inexperienced riders, can often lead to an individual taking the ATV on terrain which they do not know how to properly negotiate, leading to an accident such as tipping over. ​ ​ ​ When undertaking an ATV accident reconstruction it is important to understand the difference between the product failing to perform during anticipated use (or even foreseeable misuse) and incidents arising from improper actions by the operator. Veritech’s motorcycle and ATV expert has years of industry experience in the design, engineering, and testing of off-road products for consumer use. This experience affords him unique insight into the investigation of ATV accidents, product failures , and product liability claims, especially those related to ATVs and other power sport vehicles, such as motorcycles and UTVs. ​ ​ ATV Safety In the mid-80’s, as manufacturers were changing their vehicle design from the 3-wheeled ATC to the 4-wheeled ATV, the Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) took notice of the rather large number of injuries that were associated with the use of ATCs and ATVs. In response to the number of injuries and CPSC’s inquiry, ATC manufacturers voluntarily ceased production of 3-wheeled vehicles and agreed to collectively financing a $100 Million ATV safety campaign. As part of the ATV Safety Campaign, the ATV Safety Institute was established to provide formalized training to ATV operators. The ATV Safety Institute continues to provide training at a minimal cost for anyone interested in attending, and at no cost when associated with the purchase of a new ATV. ​ ​ One of the most important lessons taught during the ATV Safety training is how to properly handle the ATV while traversing rugged terrain. It is important that operators understand that ATVs are “rider active” vehicles. By design, a rider active vehicle depends on the rider to properly position their body in order to maintain stability. When turning or traversing a cross slope on an ATV, the rider must position their body to compensate for the vehicle’s natural tendency to tip over. Specifically, the rider must lean towards the inside of a turn or lean towards the uphill side of a cross slope in order to maintain stability. The rider’s actions as described counteract the natural forces exerted on the vehicle and rider during these maneuvers and therefore must be executed in a deliberate and planned manner. ​ The CPSC continues to monitor and report on the number of incidents and fatalities that are attributable to off-highway vehicles (OHVs), including ATVs, UTVs, and dirt-bikes. In the latest CPSC report , published in 2021 and covering accident reports from 2016 through 2018, the CPSC noted that there were 2,211 deaths associated with OHVs. Of those reported, over 70% involved ATVs while the remaining 30% involved UTVs or ROVs. Additionally, it was noted that the overturns and/or collision were the most common type of crash that resulted in death. In addition to the reported fatalities, the CPSC report estimates that there were in excess of 100,000 OHV related injuries each year during the same period. Please contact our lead ATV vehicle expert, Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E. at 303-660-4395 to discuss your case and receive a free initial consultation with honest and candid comments. Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E. Principal Engineer

Testifying Experts Industry Leading Expertise from a Locally Owned Business Veritech is proud to be a local, family owned business. Our engineers pride themselves in being hard working and dedicated to our clients. We promise to be honest and ethical in the work that we do. ​​​ Why Choose Veritech? Veritech’s engineers have proven their expertise and credibility many times over by only providing analysis and opinions that are backed by a solid, scientific basis. Why should you consider retaining our experts? The main reasons are three-fold: ​ 1. Small Company, More Accountability. The choice to work with a smaller company affords our clients the rare ability to engage with us at Veritech on a more personal level. Choosing to work with our company means that the customer is automatically engaged with the decision makers, and custom-tailored expertise is standard for every one of our projects. Big engineering firms with hundreds of “experts” simply cannot match the level of attention, consideration and responsiveness that we at Veritech can provide to our clients. What better proof of this than the fact that we have numerous repeat clients who choose to work with us over and over again. This is a testament to the level of engagement that we provide to our clients, and it shows that our clients enjoy working with us. ​ 2. Unrivaled Expertise. Our engineering experts come from multi-disciplinary backgrounds. Unlike many experts who have never been given the opportunity to work in an engineering field, our engineers have years of real-world experience the areas of vehicle design, machine design, and test engineering. This provides our engineers the knowledge to properly execute scientific and physics-based approaches that are necessary for advanced forensic engineering and accident reconstruction matters. 3. Superior Qualifications. Veritech’s Professional Engineers are licensed in multiple states and have demonstrated aptitude in the area of mechanical engineering. To qualify for licensure, we have been vetted in five main areas: graduation with a degree from a university-level engineering program that has been accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), Successful passing of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams, real-world employment experience as mechanical engineers, professional references that confirm our level of competence and integrity, and successful completion of the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam (P.E. exam) under the guidance of the Professional State Licensing Board. Additionally, our Engineers maintain a professional record with NCEES which enables expedited licensing by comity to any state in the United States of America (contact us for details), and we have been retained as experts across the nation, in Canada, and in Europe. Our engineers also hold the prestigious title of Board Certified Diplomate in Forensic Engineering (D.F.E.), granted by the National Academy of Forensic Engineers. This distinction is granted only after a candidate has successfully obtained Professional Engineering licensure, has been recommended to join the Academy by multiple professional references, and has demonstrated forensic engineering expertise to a judge and jury within a court of law. ​ The choice to work with Veritech’s engineers guarantees that you as the client are treated with professionalism, courtesy, and receptiveness. Let us help you with your next project! ​ ​ Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E Mark specializes in accident reconstruction, engineering design, and product failure analysis with an emphasis on issues involving on-road motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATV’s, and UTV’s. Mark is a mechanical engineer with 8 years of product development experience with motorcycles, UTVs and ATVs at Honda Research & Development. Mr. Kittel is an avid motorcycle enthusiast with a racing career that includes riding at a professional level while competing at select AMA Superbike events. Joe Tremblay, P. E., D.F.E. Joe is a mechanical engineer specializing in vehicle accident reconstruction, engineering design, and mechanical failure analysis. In addition to forensic engineering, Joe has professional experience in commercial and consumer level product development, machine design, robotics automation, and manufacturing. Joe's background also includes development of functional testing systems and project management of multiple million-dollar laboratory and life science integrations.

Accident Reconstruction Crash Analysis by Board Certified Forensic Engineers Veritech’s accident reconstruction engineers are specifically trained and highly experienced in the science of reconstructing motor vehicle accidents. Our engineering experts understand that accidents are a fact of life and unfortunately happen with significant frequency. Some of these accidents involve motor vehicles while others involve industrial equipment and machinery. Veritech engineers have investigated and analyzed thousands of accidents from low-speed single vehicle accidents to multi-car pile ups on busy highways. We understand that each accident has unique circumstances so we utilize the latest accident reconstruction technology, such as information from GPS records, “black box ” download data from a vehicle’s Event Data Recorder, video evidence, and sophisticated 3-dimensional computer simulation software to reach accurate and defendable conclusions. ​ ​ Accident Reconstruction Services Motorcycle Passenger Vehicle UTV, ATV, and Off-Road Motorcycle Commercial Vehicle Pedestrian and Bicycle Winter Sports and Snowmobile Construction and Heavy Equipment Marine and Personal Watercraft Veritech understands our client’s need to know what happened in an accident and why. Our forensic experts are experienced at providing insightful, reliable forensic engineering consultation to ensure that our clients fully understand all of the events surrounding a crash. A complete understanding of the accident scenario allows our clients to make informed decisions regarding the direction of their case. In addition to explaining what happened in an accident, we can also assist in understanding what could have been done to mitigate the severity of the crash or prevent the accident entirely. Veritech Engineers pride themselves in taking the complex dynamics of an accident and presenting them in a clear and understandable manner to our clients, opposing counsel, and ultimately to a jury. ​ ​ Our clients can rest assured knowing that our engineers will provide honest and reliable testimony and that our engineer’s accident reconstruction opinions will be based upon a thorough analysis of the available evidence and the application of well accepted scientific principles. Veritech’s forensic engineering experts have been qualified in state and federal courts around the country to provide expert witness testimony in numerous areas related to accident reconstruction, failure analysis and driver reaction. What is Accident Reconstruction? Accident reconstruction is generally understood to be the application of industry accepted scientific methodologies in order to determine the speeds and actions of the vehicles involved in a motor vehicle collision. Common questions that can be answered by an accident reconstructionist include: How fast were the vehicles going? and What could have been done to avoid the crash? ​ A qualified accident reconstruction expert has multi-disciplinary training and experience in areas such as mechanical engineering, physics, mathematics, vehicle dynamics, and manufacturing methods. Additional analysis tools and training includes the use of computer simulation software (such as PC Crash), Photogrammetry techniques, computer-aided drawing software (such as AutoCAD), and the extraction of crash data from a vehicle’s “black box”. (“Black box” is a generic term that refers to a vehicle’s EDR – Event Data Recorder, or ECM - Engine Control Module). ​ The activities commonly associated with the reconstruction of a motor vehicle accident begin with an inspection and documentation of the available evidence physical and a review of any testimonial evidence from witnesses or involved individuals. The initial documentation of evidence often consists of an “on-scene” investigation completed by the responding police officers. Additional evidence gathering, consisting of vehicle inspections and crash site inspections, can be done by an accident reconstruction expert within days, weeks, or even months of the date of the crash. If the subject vehicles are no longer available, or if the scene related evidence has dissipated, techniques such as Photogrammetry can be utilized to extract information from digital photos or videos. Once all of the available evidence is gathered, an accident reconstruction is then performed to analyze and evaluate the evidence. An accident reconstruction is analogous to assembling a puzzle; each piece of evidence represents a piece of the puzzle which, when properly combined, paints a clear picture of the collision and the events leading up to the incident. ​ ​ Vehicle Inspections: An in-person inspection of a vehicle involved in a crash allows the reconstructionist to observe and evaluate the post-crash condition of the vehicle. Areas of investigation during a vehicle inspection include an assessment of the physical damage sustained during the subject collision as well as an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition prior to the crash. Assessment of the vehicle’s braking system, steering system and condition of the tires can play a role in the reconstruction of the accident and may be considered as factors that contributed to the accident if issues with these systems are found. ​ ​ Depending on the allegations in the case, a detailed investigation and inspection of various vehicle components may be warranted. For example, if there is a question about whether an occupant was wearing a seatbelt, an accident reconstructionist has several avenues for investigating this issue. Such as: ​ “Black Box” (EDR) data : The US Government’s Code of Federal Regulations (Title 49: CFR 563 ) requires that all passenger vehicles which are equipped with an EDR and were manufactured after September 1, 2012 must record the seatbelt usage status for the driver. As such, an accident reconstructionist who has the training and equipment to access the vehicle’s EDR should be able to obtain reliable information about the seatbelt use at the time of a crash. ​ Seatbelt Pre-tensioner activation: Many modern vehicles are equipped with seatbelt pre-tensioners for the front occupants. The purpose of a pre-tensioner is to remove any slack in the seatbelt to ensure that the occupant is in the optimal position during a collision. The deployment of a seatbelt pre-tensioner utilizes a pyro-technic device to remove any excess slack then locks the seatbelt from extending. Evaluating the position of a seatbelt which experienced a pre-tensioner deployment will provide the accident reconstructionist with a reliable basis for concluding whether the seatbelt was being worn at the time of a collision. ​ Witness Marks: When a seatbelt experiences a high loading event (such as in a frontal collision), there are often “witness marks” which remain on the seatbelt and associated components. The keen eye of a qualified accident reconstruction expert is able to identify the location and intensity of any potential witness mark, or lack of witness mark, to help determine whether the seatbelt was worn during the incident. ​ ​ Site Inspection: Inspection of the crash site is often useful for the reconstructionist to understand relevant aspects such as the geometry of the terrain and potential obstructions for sight lines. In addition to documenting a crash site utilizing ground level digital photos, Veritech’s accident reconstruction experts often digitally map the crash site using drone technology or 3-D laser survey equipment. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Accident Reconstruction and Forensic Analysis : Once all of the evidence is gathered it can then be analyzed and evaluated for use in the accident reconstruction process. Veritech’s accident reconstruction experts utilize state-of-the-art technology and methodologies to analyze and accurately reconstruct each motor vehicle accident. Our experience and attention to detail allows us to provide a clear and complete assessment of the facts for our clients so that you can make an informed decision on the direction of your case. ​ ​ ​ ​ We would love to hear from you. Please contact Veritech engineering at 303-660-4395 to discuss your case and receive a free initial consultation with honest and candid comments from one of our Certified Forensic Engineers.

Photogrammetry and Surveying Utilizing Scientific Data from Photographs, Video, and Forensic Inspections The ability to accurately analyze evidence related to an accident or product failure is imperative to the successful outcome of the analysis. Veritech uses state-of-the-art methods in order to gather all information necessary to perform an accident reconstruction . After an accident, evidence remains in two locations: within the vicinity of the accident site and upon the involved vehicles or machinery. Evidence inspections performed by forensic engineers usually occur after responding emergency personnel have left and law enforcement have completed their investigation. ​ ​ Photogrammetry The term photogrammetry is largely unknown aside from its use in certain niche industries, mostly due to the recent advancement in current technology related to it. Photogrammetry can be defined as the scientific extraction of data and measurements from photographs. The process of capturing information from a series of photographs, two-dimensional information, and turning it into a three-dimensional model, is the essence of photogrammetry. While this concept may be difficult to appreciate in theory, in practice the process is very effective at extracting information from photographs, and even digital video. Photogrammetry provides another level of data collection, evidence measurement, and 3D modeling capability that may have not been previously considered possible with standard photographs. ​ While the science of photogrammetry has been around for many years, employing the process in real-world applications is still very state-of-the-art. Recently developed software packages allow Veritech’s engineers the ability to take advantage of the science of photogrammetry during accident reconstruction and forensic engineering projects. What’s more, Veritech’s usage of photogrammetry is unrivaled in the industry, giving us significant advantage over industry competitors. ​ Photogrammetry in Accident Reconstruction Imagine that the only record of an incident was a series of photographs, and no other means of investigation or inspection was done. A common hypothetical example of this would be a series of photographs taken by an individual involved, or witness to, a car accident. Perhaps the photographs show the points of rest of the vehicles involved and some evidence of tire marks within the vicinity of the crash. Upon first glance, these photographs may not hold much relevance to the subject accident. However by utilizing photogrammetry, valuable information related to the accident can be collected. This scenario is common, and Veritech has successfully performed analyses of accidents based upon information provided in standard photographs. ​ Videogrammetry Dashboard mounted video cameras are becoming more and more popular as a component of passenger vehicles. These small video cameras are already largely used by commercial truck fleets, on trains, and even construction equipment due to their recording capabilities in the event that an accident occurs. The science of photogrammetry applies to the use on video recordings, sometimes referred to as “videogrammetry”, in a similar manner to still-frame photographs. With this approach, information can be extracted from a series of video frames that change with time, referred to as a “sequence” of frames. A common example would be to determine speeds of vehicles visible within a video recording based upon their change in position within the video sequence. ​ Another common approach is to determine the speed of the vehicle in which the dash-mounted camera is installed. Both of these scenarios are accomplished with videogrammetry. Veritech has been an industry leader in photogrammetry since our founding. Our application of videogrammetry has aided in establishing a scientifically backed basis for numerous accident reconstruction and forensic engineering opinions in the work that we perform. ​ Limitations on the Application of Photogrammetry While photogrammetry provides a very powerful tool to be used in forensic engineering, it is important to understand the limitations of this science. In many instances, the quality of the photographs taken may affect whether or not information can be extracted using photogrammetry. If the photographs do not properly capture the subject of interest from a sufficient number of angles, the accuracy of the photogrammetric project can be compromised. In other cases, such as if the image has been distorted, photogrammetry may not be the best solution. These issues, as well as others, can be identified beforehand by a trained eye. Veritech would be happy to discuss the details of your photogrammetry project further, and our engineers can assist in determining if your photographs or video can be used with this process. ​ Site Inspections: What Can Be Inspected? It is common for reconstructionists to document site-related information such as: ​ Tire mark evidence, Roadway gouges and evidence of area of impact (AOI), Crash related damage debris, and Terrain data Visibility studies, obstructions to line of sight and adverse weather conditions Night time lighting studies Traffic surveys Analysis of traffic control devices, such as traffic lights ​ ​ Vehicle Inspections: What Can Be Inspected? The vehicle inspections are similar in scope to the site inspections, and comprise of documenting impact related damage, taking digital measurements, and assessing the overall conditions of the vehicles as they were during the accident. Vehicle inspections often include: Vehicle condition after accident occurs Vehicle "black box" downloads Condition of safety systems: airbags and seatbelts, even roll cages and occupant compartment structure Vehicle crush measurement and documentation Braking system assessment ​ It is important to note that the accident site and vehicle conditions may change with the amount of time after an accident occurred, due to environmental conditions and other external factors. Therefore, it is important for reconstruction engineers to inspect an accident site and perform vehicle inspections as soon as possible after an accident occurs in order to obtain the most accurate data. Forensic Site Surveying Veritech’s team of Professional Engineers have the capability to utilize Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV, a.k.a. Drones) for use in aerial imagery, video, photogrammetry, and surveying for dimensionally accurate point cloud generation. Our cutting-edge Drone Technology allows us to develop fully detailed, three-dimensional terrains of accident sites with accuracy that rivals 3D scanners or total station surveys. Additionally, our drone surveys are capable of properly surveying impact related damage on large vehicles, semi tractor-trailers, trains, construction equipment, and other large and difficult to inspect machinery. Our drone surveying capabilities allow us to capture feature-rich surveys of an accident site in a safe and effective manner. ​ ​ Veritech has the ability and experience in using tripod-mounted total station survey equipment and three-dimensional scanning equipment from manufacturers such as Sokkia, Trimble, Leica, and Faro. These pieces of equipment are used frequently in various stages of building construction, civil engineering, and metrology. More recently, law enforcement agencies have adapted the use of scanners to aid in documenting accident scenes. While these pieces of equipment are useful in some forensic engineering matters, it is important to consider their limitations when used for accident reconstruction. In many situations, these scanners are used simply as an automatic default tool that is not quite appropriate for the task at hand, and can end up costing valuable time, effort, and financial expense when a simpler, more direct, solution is available. Veritech engineers always consider the objective for each project individually and employ the best tool for the job, saving on costs and increasing efficiency. ​

Off-Road Motorcycle Accident Reconstruction Off-Road Motorcycle Accident Reconstruction by Dirt Bike Enthusiasts The investigation and reconstruction of off-road motorcycle accidents requires an understanding of motorcycle dynamics and the effect of a rider’s inputs on the handling and response of a motorcycle. Veritech Engineering’s motorcycle experts have over 40 years of experience riding and racing off-road motorcycles, combined with 8 years of experience working for a major manufacturer as a design and testing engineer for the development of power sports vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs. This hands-on experience, combined with registration as Professional Engineers and Certified Forensic Engineer in the area of mechanical engineering, gives them unique insight and understanding into the dynamics and rider actions associated with off-road motorcycle crashes. The combination of training, education and experience gives our experts unmatched credentials and authority in the area of motorcycle accident investigation and reconstruction. Additionally, our lead motorcycle expert has been qualified by both state and federal courts around the country, and internationally, to give expert testimony in the areas of mechanical engineering, accident reconstruction, motorcycle vehicle dynamics and motorcycle riding techniques and practices. ​ Types of Off-Road Riding Motocross: The popularity of off-road motorcycling, a.k.a. dirt biking, has historically been limited to either motocross style riding or enduro riding. Motocross riding focuses on a rider circulating a course that has been prepared with obstacles such as jumps and whoops. The rider is often focused on circulating the course as fast as possible thereby challenging himself, and his competition, to develop their riding skills and course knowledge to achieve a faster lap time. Although it is not required, many motocross riders aspire to compete against other rider of similar skill level in an organized race. ​ ​ Motocross races are held virtually every weekend throughout the year at various closed-course tracks around the country. There are amateur level races, which offer competition groups based on age, skill level, or motorcycle size, and there are professional level races for highly skilled riders which typically group racing classes based only on motorcycle size. ​ ​ Enduro Off-Road: The second riding style mentioned above is enduro riding. Enduro riding, which is sometime referred to as “trail riding”, differs from motocross in that enduro riding takes place on un-prepared trails. Common settings for enduro riding include mountainous terrain, deserts, and wooded areas located away from populated regions. Trail riding can be enjoyed in either a competitive setting or a family-oriented leisure ride setting. Competitive trail riding has several primary formats; enduro races, hare-scramble races, and hare-and-hound races. Official enduro style racing has traditionally been a timekeeping event (where riders try to maintain a pre-determined speed over an unfamiliar course around 100 miles in length) but more recently the popularity of “special test sections” is increasing. ​ Hare-scramble racing, sometimes referred to as Grand National Cross-Country (GNCC) racing, entails multiple laps on a natural course with each lap being on the order of 5 miles or longer. Hare-and-Hound races, also known as “desert racing”, are high-speed events through the desert over distances of 100+ miles that can be either point-to-point races, or a few long laps. ​ A subset of off-road riding, often termed adventure riding, combines components of on-road motorcycle riding with some trail and dirt road riding. Adventure motorcycle riding is very popular in mountainous regions of the country and may require the rider to travel many miles, sometimes hundreds of miles, across challenging terrain. The motorcycles used during adventure riding are often relatively heavy, but have exceptional power and suspension designed for off-road trail riding. ​ ​ Trials and Hard Enduro: A third type of riding, which has historically been more popular in Europe, is called trials riding. Trials riding uses a specialized form of motorcycle which is lightweight, moderately powered and is not intended for distances greater than a few miles. Trials competitions channel the riders through very short courses over extremely technical terrain with the rider having the goal of negotiating the terrain while maintain their balance without putting a foot on the ground. Professional trials riders are able to negotiate both natural and man-made obstacles that are upwards of five to eight feet above the ground while maintaining their balance. ​ A relatively new type of riding, called hard enduro, has recently gained popularity in the dirt bike community. Hard enduro combines elements of traditional enduro riding with elements of trials riding. Hard enduro riders use typical dirt bikes to negotiate extremely difficult natural terrain on a course that is approximately 50 miles in length. Regardless of the style of off-road motorcycle riding, Veritech’s motorcycle experts have the experience and training to assess your dirt bike case and provide forensic engineering analysis and accident reconstruction services with true expertise as a motorcycle expert. Please contact our off-road motorcycle expert, Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E. at 303-660-4395 to discuss your case and receive a free initial consultation with honest and candid comments. Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E. Principal Engineer

Careers with Veritech Consulting Engineering Hiring Experienced Forensic Engineers! Current Opportunities: Seeking Partner Level Engineer Veritech Consulting Engineering is seeking to expand its capabilities with the addition of Partner level forensic engineers in the fields of Mechanical Engineering, BioMechanical/BioMedical Engineering, Structural/Civil Engineering and Electrical Engineering. Veritech Engineering prides itself on providing the highest quality of engineering consultation to our clients and understands that goal can only be met with the highest quality engineers on staff. As such, we recognize the value of our engineers and provide them with a comfortable work environment and reward them with a generous compensation package. ​ Desired qualifications include: ​ Degree in Engineering from ABET accredited university PE license (multiple states are preferred) DFE Diplomate in Forensic Engineering preferred Deposition and trial testimony experience Strong client references The ability to generate and maintain client relationships Excellent project and case management skills ​ ​ Compensation: ​ For Partner level engineers, Veritech offers flexible work schedules and a compensation package commensurate with each engineer’s experience and productivity. The anticipated salary range for a partner level engineer is $50,000-$150,000 . ​ ​ Additional Benefits: ​ Additional benefits include: Performance-based bonuses Paid time off Company matching of Simple IRA contributions ​ Qualified applicants will possess the highest level of uncompromising ethical standards and should have appropriate forensic engineering experience in their respective fields. Interested candidates should reach out to Veritech at 303-660-4395, or submit a resume by email to info@veritecheng.com . All inquiries will be held in strict confidentiality to protect the applicant.

Scissor Lift Accident Reconstruction ​ Aerial Work Platform Accident Analysis Scissor lifts are a useful, and often essential, piece of equipment for construction and maintenance operations. A scissor lift is a type of “Aerial Work Platform”, which is a broader term for devices that are designed to lift personnel to a certain height above the ground. Aerial work platforms in general can typically lift personnel to heights that would otherwise not be easily reachable. Scissor lifts are a very popular type of aerial work platform because they are relatively compact, and can lift vertically without taking up much external space aside from the footprint of the lift itself. All aerial work platforms are designed to lift personnel, and are not typically used for other payload lifting purposes (except in unique circumstances). Typically scissor lifts are suited for surfaces that are generally flat and hard, such as concrete factory floors or even hard-packed road base. Most scissor lifts do not have any sort of articulation built in to the drive wheels, reducing their ability to traverse uneven terrain. ​ Most scissor lifts are electric motor powered and carry large batteries within their chassis. Outdoor units can be powered with small internal combustion engines and may use compressed natural gas, propane, or even diesel as fuel. Typically the only components of a scissor lift that extend beyond the footprint of the machine are outriggers, which must be positioned properly to secure the base of the lift for increased stability when the lift is raised to significant heights. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Common Types of Scissor Lift Accidents One danger of this equipment is the potential for the operator to fall from the platform when it is raised. Scissor lifts are typically able to raise the working platform to heights of 60 feet, or even higher with some models. While these lifts are equipped with a railing surrounding the personnel platform, if the operator is not properly positioned within the personnel platform while performing work, it is possible that the operator could lose their balance and fall off of the platform, causing injury. ​ ​ Issues such as crushing hazards from above (as the lift raises against a ceiling or exposed pipes) or contact with electrical lines are less common but can still be serious. Platform height is controlled by the operator, meaning that the operator may inadvertently position the lift too high and cause the operator compartment to come into contact with overhead hazards. While the majority of these accidents may initially seem to be caused by lack of proper training or operator error, our experience shows that the proper maintenance and functionality of the equipment can also be contributing factors. Veritech Engineers are experienced at evaluating the proper functionality and operation of scissor lifts as well as other aerial work platforms. ​ ​ With the wide variety of experiences and backgrounds of our Professional Engineers, we are able to evaluate the functionality of the various mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical systems employed in equipment such as scissor lifts. Additionally, members of our staff have been trained in the proper operation of scissor lifts. Contact us today to discuss the specifics of your case. ​ Please contact one of our licensed professional engineers at 303-660-4395 to discuss your case and receive a free initial consultation with honest and candid comments. Mark Kittel, P.E., D.F.E Principal Engineer Joe Tremblay, P.E., D.F.E. Senior Engineer