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Car accidents can quickly turn into disputes when fault is unclear. Whether it’s due to conflicting statements or lack of witnesses, determining liability is crucial. This is where accident reconstruction experts come in. By using specialized methods and scientific principles, they can piece together what really happened.

Below are six techniques these professionals use to investigate the causes of vehicle collisions. Contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 for a free legal consultation.

Calculating Momentum and Kinetic Energy

One critical aspect of accident reconstruction involves analyzing momentum and kinetic energy. Total momentum is conserved during a collision, while kinetic energy transforms into other forms, such as heat or deformation of the vehicles. Experts calculate the total momentum by considering the mass of each vehicle and the distance traveled before the collision. Additionally, analyzing the energy conversion can determine whether the collision was elastic or inelastic, revealing details about the severity of the impact.

Evaluating Distance and Reaction Time

The relationship between speed, time, and distance provides crucial insights. Accident reconstruction experts use known speeds and typical reaction times to calculate how far a vehicle traveled before the driver responded. This helps identify whether the driver reacted slowly or not at all, shedding light on potential contributing factors such as distractions or impaired driving.

Analyzing Skid Marks

Skid marks on the road often tell a story. Reconstruction specialists measure the length and placement of these marks, considering surface friction and the vehicle’s braking efficiency. These factors help estimate the minimum speed of the vehicle before the collision occurred. This data can provide a clearer picture of how events unfolded leading up to the crash.

Reviewing Scene Photographs

Photographs taken at the accident scene, whether by the police, drivers, or attorneys, are vital pieces of evidence. These images can show early damage to the vehicles, their positions post-collision, and other environmental factors like weather or road conditions. By incorporating photos into their analysis, experts can validate findings and create a more complete picture of the incident.

Using Vehicle Manufacturer Data

Information from the vehicle manufacturer plays an important role in reconstruction. Specifications such as crash ratings, turning radii, and braking systems are compared against damage assessments to calculate key details like the minimum force involved in the collision. This technical data often bridges the gap between observed damage and the forces at play.

Determining Force and Speed

Finally, accident reconstruction experts analyze all gathered evidence to calculate the speed of the vehicles at the moment of impact. This speed data helps determine the force exerted during the collision. Knowing the speed and force can clarify whether certain injuries or damages were likely caused by the crash, strengthening the case for liability determination.

Accident reconstruction experts bring a wealth of knowledge to their investigations. Even in cases with no witnesses or conflicting narratives, these professionals use science and evidence to uncover the truth. If you need assistance after an accident, reach out to Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 for a free consultation.

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