How Can an Accident Reconstructionist Help My Case?

If you were involved in an accident and are seeking compensation, you may be wondering if an accident reconstructionist can assist in proving fault. Accident reconstructionists are experts who play a crucial role in analyzing and interpreting the events leading up to a collision.

Below, we discuss what accident reconstructionists do and how their findings can prove fault in car accident claims.

Our knowledgeable New Jersey auto accident lawyers may be able to work with an accident reconstructionist to prove your case with no upfront costs to you. We also offer a free consultation to determine your legal options.

What is an Accident Reconstructionist?

Accident reconstructionists are highly trained professionals who specialize in accident investigation and reconstruction. They possess a unique set of skills and expertise that allows them to analyze the complex dynamics of vehicle collisions. Generally, these individuals have a background in engineering, physics or other related fields.

To become an accident reconstructionist, individuals usually undergo extensive training and education. They acquire knowledge in areas such as vehicle dynamics, crash physics, human factors and forensic analysis. This comprehensive understanding helps them to interpret and analyze the evidence gathered from accident scenes.

Due to this knowledge, an accident reconstructionist may be asked to provide expert testimony in an accident case. Their testimony can be useful in determining what caused a collision and who is likely at fault.

What is the Purpose of Accident Reconstructionists?

Accident reconstructionists play an important role in breaking down the event of a collision. Their specialized knowledge and technical expertise allow them to provide valuable insights into the causes and contributing factors of a crash.

Reconstructing the Crash Scene Using Evidence

Most accident reconstructionists’ jobs do not begin until long after the initial incident. This means their primary role is to re-imagine how the scene played out using existing evidence. That is why it is crucial to take as many photos at an accident scene as possible.

When investigating a crash scene, accident reconstructionists assess the physical surroundings, including the layout of the road, intersections, signage and any other relevant environmental factors. They consider elements such as visibility, lighting conditions, weather conditions and the presence of any obstructions or hazards. They also carefully inspect and document damage to the vehicles involved in the collision.

There is some evidence that stays at the scene of a crash long after the incident. For example, skid marks. Accident reconstructionists carefully measure and document skid marks, analyzing their length, width and patterns. Skid marks can provide valuable information about vehicle speeds, braking and steering.

The goal of investigating the scene is to gather all relevant physical evidence and document it thoroughly.

Analyzing Findings

After gathering and documenting all the relevant evidence from the accident scene, accident reconstructionists move on to analyze their findings. This analysis involves the use of specialized software, mathematical calculations and simulations to recreate the accident and understand its dynamics.

Some key factors analyzed during the accident reconstruction process include the following:

• Speed
• Reaction time
• Angle of impact
• Braking distance
• Direction and magnitude of force
• Resulting trajectories of involved vehicles

By reconstructing accidents and analyzing the evidence, accident reconstructionists may be able to help determine fault, which can help secure compensation for victims.

However, it is important to note that accident reconstruction analysis involves a level of uncertainty, as some evidence may be missing or there are technological limitations.

Does Every Case Need an Accident Reconstructionist?

While accident reconstructionists play a crucial role in determining fault in car accident cases, not every case requires their involvement.

The decision to hire an accident reconstructionist depends on various factors, including the complexity of the accident, the severity of injuries and whether liability is being disputed by the parties involved.

Generally, your attorney can help determine whether your case requires the expertise of an accident reconstructionist.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Accident Reconstructionist?

The cost of hiring an accident reconstructionist can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the extent of their involvement. On average, the fee for an accident reconstruction expert can run between $30 to $45 an hour.

However, most attorneys who work on a contingency basis absorb the upfront costs of these expert witnesses, so the accident victim does not have to pay out-of-pocket. The fee for using an accident reconstructionist is usually paid when the case is closed, so the money comes from the compensation recovered on behalf of the accident victim.

Call Us Today

If you were injured in a car accident, our lawyers are ready to help.

Our dedicated attorneys can evaluate your case, determine if the involvement of an accident reconstructionist is necessary and guide you through the legal process.

Contact us today at 800-518-0508 for a free consultation.