accident reconstruction Methodology

The expert reconstruction of an accident follows an orderly methodology. Its objective is to explain, based on objective evidence, how the event developed from before the impact to the final position of those involved. This is not an opinion: it is a technical analysis supported by documentation, measurements and calculations.

A well-constructed report can be sustained in court, in negotiation with insurers or in sanctioning procedures.

Phases of analysis

• Complete collection of documentation and evidence.
• Inspection of the scene, if possible within a reasonable period of time.
• Analysis of footprints, marks and deformations.
• Reconstruction of the trajectory and speeds.
• Complementary biomechanical study, when applicable.
• Writing the report with justified conclusions.

Data collection

The sooner the data is collected, the better. The passage of time erases traces, modifies the scenario and makes reconstruction difficult. They are studied:

• Police report and proceedings.
• Photographs, videos and camera recordings.
• Official sketches and field measurements.
• Condition, deformation and final position of the vehicles or elements involved.
• Statements from witnesses and parties involved.

Sometimes, the first visit to the place provides information that no documentation reflected.

Fingerprint analysis

The braking, drag, collision and projection traces allow speeds, impact angles and trajectories to be estimated. Each print is studied:

• Start and end point.
• Length and width.
• Orientation with respect to the road or plane.
• Compatibility with the vehicle or element that produced it.

On public roads, the duration of the footprints is limited. That is why the initial report is so important.

Study of dynamics

With the previous data, the expert reconstructs:

• Position and speed before impact.
• Collision point and angle.
• Forces transmitted.
• Movement after impact.
• Final positions.

They are supported by equations of mechanics and, when appropriate, specific simulations.

Complementary biomechanics

When personal injuries occur, the compatibility between the mechanism of the accident and the documented injuries can be assessed. This study does not diagnose, but rather analyzes whether the forces described are consistent with the alleged injuries.

Useful documentation

• Complete report and annexes.
• Photographs of the place and the vehicles.
• Medical reports, if applicable.
• Recordings from nearby cameras.
• Technical data of the vehicles.

Report limits

The reconstruction provides the most probable technical explanation. Legal responsibility and the legal assessment of fault correspond to the court and legal advice.

Next steps

• Please refer to the full process.
• Review the reconstruction specialty.
• Contact from contact or the help center.