Accident Reconstruction
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. While each accident has unique circumstances, all of our analyses are scientifically based and utilize the latest in proven accident reconstruction technologies 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.
Veritech understands our client’s need to know what happened in an accident and why. Our forensic engineering experts are experienced at providing insightful and reliable 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.
Accident Reconstruction Services
What is Accident Reconstruction?
Accident reconstruction is the scientific process of analyzing motor vehicle collisions to determine the speed, motion, and associated physics. By applying industry accepted methodologies, Veritech's accident reconstruction experts can answer critical questions such as:
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How fast were the vehicles traveling?
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How severe was the impact?
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What could have been done to prevent the crash?
What Does an Accident Reconstruction Expert Do?
A professional accident reconstruction engineer brings multi-disciplinary expertise in mechanical engineering, physics, mathematics, vehicle dynamics, and human factors. These professionals use advanced tools and technologies, including:
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Computer simulation software like PC-Crash to model collisions
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Photogrammetry techniques and software for analyzing photos and video
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Computer-aided design (CAD) software
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Vehicle “black box” data extraction, from Event Data Recorders (EDR) or Engine Control Modules (ECM) for relevant impact related data
This combination of training, experience, and technology allows Veritech's experts to reconstruct accidents with unmatched accuracy and precision.
Vehicle Inspections
Our engineers are highly experienced in preforming detailed inspections of the vehicles involved in a crash. These inspections aid Veritech's experts in assessing:
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Physical damage sustained during the crash
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Vehicle condition prior to the collision, including pre-existing damage
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The functionality of the vehicle's braking, steering, drivetrain, electronics, and additional vehicle systems to identify potential contributing factors
Additional investigation may include determining seatbelt usage or the proper performance of various safety systems such as airbags or stability control systems.
Some of these safety system inspection methods include:
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EDR Data Analysis: Federal regulations (49 CFR 563) require that vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2012 monitor and report seatbelt usage status. Analysis of the EDR data allows Veritech's experts to confirm if an occupant was wearing their seatbelt during an incident.
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Seatbelt Pre-Tensioner Evaluation: Pre-tensioners are designed to take up slack in the seatbelt during a collision. Examining the seatbelt after a pre-tensioner deployment provides evidence of seatbelt usage.
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Witness Marks: Moderate to severe frontal impacts produce high-load events which often leave witness marks on seatbelt systems. The presence, or absence, of the associated witness marks provides clues as to whether seatbelt usage was likely.
Crash Site Inspections
Veritech's reconstruction experts are also qualified to examine crash sites to understand terrain geometry, visibility limitations, available sight lines, and potential physical obstacles.
Evidence documentation includes:
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Ground-level digital photography
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3-D laser surveying of the accident site to capture terrain and roadway features
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Video based analysis of the subject area
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Traffic signal timing and analysis
Accident Reconstruction and Forensic Analysis
After gathering all of the physical evidence, Veritech's experts perform a detailed reconstruction of the subject collision. Using industry accepted methodologies and state-of-the-art technology, our accident reconstructionists analyze the events leading up to, during, and after the crash. The end product is a clear, evidence-based analysis that will allow our clients to make informed decisions, whether for litigation purposes or insurance claim assessment.
Veritech’s board certified forensic engineers provide comprehensive accident reconstruction services for attorneys and insurance professionals nationwide. We combine technical expertise with meticulous attention to detail to ensure accurate and defendable results. Contact Veritech Consulting Engineering today at 303-660-4395 for a free initial consultation and honest, professional guidance from our experienced accident reconstruction experts.