3-D Laser Scanning
3-D Laser Scanners are a new tool available for accident reconstruction, which, when applied in the right circumstances, provides invaluable data. We typically utilize this tool for collision reconstruction.
Photogrammetry
Photogrammetry is an analysis method utilized to extract measurements from photographs. It is an essential tool for reconstructing collisions and for general forensic engineering analysis.
Event Data Recorders
Most passenger vehicles and heavy commercial vehicles are now equipped with event data recorders. These can be part of the on-board computer that controls airbags, or the engine or other systems. We have the specialized equipment and training needed to access and correctly interpret the data. That data can be very helpful in determining what happened.
Expert Witness
An expert witness is someone who is court-qualified to provide opinion evidence in trials. Other witnesses can give their observations, but not opinions. Our opinions are based on scientific principles and rigourous analysis with the goal of assisting the court in understanding what happened in a collision.
Rebuttal Reports
We often review the work of other engineers and accident recinstructionists. If you have an opposing expert’s report, we will review it to see whether their work is accurate and appropriate, and to explain the effects of their assumptions. We will give you an honest assessment of their work with the areas where we agree and disagree.
Video Analysis
Dash cams, cell phones, red light cameras, and surveillance footage from homes or businesses often capture useful evidence and information. We use specialized software that can access and analyze almost all video types in a forensically sound manner. Combined with geometric data (from laser scans, or other real world measurements), it is possible to determine impact location, speeds, position, timing and more; all from video evidence.
Simulation & Animation
Simulation is a powerful analysis tool that uses the Laws of Physics to predict how a vehicle will react to a collision and/or to driver inputs. Animation is similar but it is used to illustrate our analysis rather than being part of forming our analysis. Our simulations and animations show a 3D view of the event from any angle and can be effect communication tools.
Vehicle Testing
In some cases it can be important to perform testing to determine the capabilities and expected behaviour of a vehicle. For instance, how rapidly will it stop? How much with the nose drop during hard braking? How quickly can the truck accelerate when carrying that amount of cargo? These types of questions become more relevant due to the effects of the traction control and other systems.
Evidence Preservation
It is very important to preserve as much evidence as possible early after an event. Some evidence is perishable and others (like the vehicles) may be destroyed within a few months. We are often called to do initial inspections that preserve the evidence by laser scanning measurements, photographs, event data downloads, etc. That evidence is then available for future analysis if needed.
