What Can a Car Accident Reconstructionist Do for a South Bend Injury Claim?

Some car accident cases are complex. Both parties may have different perspectives of what happened, which can make it difficult to establish liability. This is where an expert witness like a car accident reconstructionist comes in.

In this blog, we discuss what a car accident reconstructionist does. We review how the reports these professionals create can prove liability and link your injury to the collision. We also explain how you can tell if you may need one for your case.

The South Bend car accident lawyers at Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak regularly consult experts to strengthen claims. We have a proven track record of success and can determine when it may be necessary to consult a reconstructionist.

Call us today to set up your free case review: 574-444-0741.

What Does a Car Accident Reconstructionist Do?

A car accident reconstructionist is an expert who analyzes the details of a car accident to determine how and why it occurred. They use scientific methods and engineering principles to reconstruct the sequence of events before, during and after the collision.

These experts take a multidisciplinary approach, falling back on their knowledge of many subjects, such as:

• Retrieving data from an electronic data recorder
• Computer software for developing simulations of accidents
• Math
• Vehicle design
• Forensic analysis of an accident
• Using aerial drones to take photographs
• Vehicle design and how that influences crash damage
• And much more

Accident reconstruction experts do a detailed analysis of the crash, consisting of:

Examining the Accident Scene

Once a car accident reconstructionist arrives at a crash scene, they can take pictures and videos of physical evidence such as skid marks, vehicle debris and road conditions. They can gather this and other evidence to create detailed sketches and diagrams of the scene showing:

• The vehicle positions
• Road markings
• Traffic signs
• And more

Analyzing Vehicle Damage

The damage to the vehicle could reveal the sequence of events during a collision. Vehicle damage can also allow experts to determine vehicle positions before and after a crash.

Conducting Simulations

Specialized software is used to input collected data. This software can simulate the physics of the collision, including vehicle dynamics, impact forces and trajectories.

The software can also generate 3D models of the vehicles and the environment. These models help visualize the vehicles’ positions and movements before, during and after the collision. This can be particularly compelling evidence in a jury trial.

Consulting Witnesses

After a collision, car accident reconstructionists may interview witnesses at the scene, over the phone, or in writing. Sometimes, they may use a structured questionnaire to ensure all relevant details are covered during the interview.

Reviewing Medical Records

Accident reconstructionists also review medical records to connect the diagnosis to the collision. Their conclusions can help link an injury to a car crash. For instance, they could provide a detailed explanation of how the force and location of impact affected your body, resulting in your injuries.

How Could a Car Accident Reconstructionist Prove Your Injury?

A car accident reconstructionist can play a crucial role in proving your case by providing a detailed and scientifically backed account of the accident. This can support your injury claim in several ways:

• Establishing Fault: Accident reconstructionists can analyze the collision to determine who is at fault, which is key for liability claims.
• Correlating Injuries with Accident Dynamics: They can explain how the mechanics of the accident caused your specific injuries, strengthening the link between the accident and your medical condition.
• Providing Expert Testimony: In court, a reconstructionist can testify as an expert witness, presenting their findings in a clear and convincing manner.
• Supporting Insurance Claims: Detailed reports from a reconstructionist can provide compelling evidence to support your claim with insurance companies.

How Do You Know if You Need an Accident Reconstructionist?

Every car accident is different, and your lawyer may not always need to consult an accident reconstructionist. There are some factors that could make it more likely that your lawyer will need reconstruction of the accident:

• Disputed Liability: If the parties involved in the accident dispute who was at fault, a reconstructionist can provide clarity.
• Serious Injuries: In cases involving severe injuries, it is crucial to establish a clear connection between the accident and the injuries.
• Complex Accidents: Multi-vehicle collisions or accidents involving unusual circumstances often benefit from a detailed reconstruction.
• Lack of Clear Evidence: If there is little physical evidence or conflicting witness statements, a reconstructionist’s analysis can provide specific details of what happened.

What to Expect from a Car Accident Reconstructionist’s Report

A car accident reconstructionist’s report is an in-depth document that details their findings and conclusions. Here is what you can expect from such a report:

• Accident Overview: A summary of the accident, including the date, time and location.
• Scene Analysis: Detailed descriptions of the accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signs and weather conditions.
• Vehicle Examination: This involves analyzing the vehicles involved, noting points of impact, damage patterns and mechanical issues.
• Witness Statements: Summaries of witness accounts and their relevance to the reconstruction.
• Accident Dynamics: A step-by-step explanation of how the accident occurred, supported by diagrams and simulations.
• Conclusions: The reconstructionist’s conclusions regarding fault, the sequence of events, and how the injuries occurred.
• Recommendations: Any suggestions for further investigation or additional evidence that may be needed.

How Much Does a Car Accident Reconstructionist Cost?

The cost can vary depending on several factors, which are listed below. However, at our firm, we take on these costs while pursuing compensation, as we do not charge upfront fees:

• Complexity of the Case: More complex cases require more time and resources, which can increase the cost.
• Experience and Reputation: Highly experienced reconstructionists or those with specialized expertise may charge higher fees.
• Geographic Location: Costs can also vary based on the location of the accident and the reconstructionist’s office.
• Scope of Work: The extent of the reconstructionist’s involvement, including whether they will testify in court, affects the overall cost.

How Long Does Accident Reconstruction Take

A general reconstruction of accidents might take four to six weeks, while more complex cases could extend to several months. The time required for an accident reconstruction can vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the availability of evidence. Here are some factors that influence the timeline:

Evidence Collection

Gathering and analyzing physical evidence, witness statements and vehicle data can take time, especially if the accident is a major one.

Accident Complexity

Simple accidents might be reconstructed in a few weeks, while complex, multi-vehicle collisions could take several months.

Expert Availability

The availability of the reconstructionist and any additional experts needed for the case can also impact the timeline.

Do You Have Injuries from a Car Crash? Call Pfeifer Morgan & Stesiak.

Many crash victims feel alone and unsure of what to do, which is why they often reach out to an attorney. The lawyers at Pfeifer Morgan & Stesiak have helped numerous crash victims, guiding them through the process and helping provide the peace of mind they need after a serious injury.

No obligation or upfront fees. Call today at (574) 444-0741.