ATS performs accident reconstruction engineering services to establish the facts of an accident. We work with minor-impact, multi-vehicle, train and vehicle, and rollover accidents that involve passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.
Our accident reconstructionists collect data on the collision, then use powerful technology to determine the forces and causes of the accident. Finally, our experts can present our findings to clients and a jury in animated form.
Accident Data Collection
Accident reconstruction engineering relies on evidence, such as:
- Driver and witness accounts
- Scene and aerial photographs
- FARO 3D laser scans
- Vehicle photographs
Pictures and scans of the scene are especially valuable, as they preserve details from the collision scene and environment, including:
- Skid marks
- Debris location
- Vehicle positions
- Weather conditions
- Roadway conditions
Data Extraction
Imaging equipment also provides vital data about vehicles. For example, the Event Data Recorder (EDR) or “black box” stores imaged data about speed, acceleration, and braking within a 10-20 second frame around the crash.
An accident reconstructionist can also extract data from an infotainment system with a Berla tool. This data may include call logs, emails, SMS messages, and navigation history from a phone linked to a vehicle via USB or Bluetooth. The infotainment system can reveal if someone was using the phone at the time of the accident.
Vehicle Inspection
Our reconstructionist may recommend mechanical failure analysis to determine if mechanical failure caused the accident. An ATS mechanical engineer will inspect individual systems in the vehicle, such as:
- Air brake system
- Brakes
- Airbags
- Steering system
- Hydraulic system
- Powertrain
- Chassis
Accident Reconstruction Tools
After collecting data, accident reconstruction engineers use innovative technology to calculate driver input and reaction times, stopping distances, speed, acceleration, and braking. We can present our animated conclusions to clients and a trial jury.
VBOX Video HVD2
The VBOX Video HD2 uses real-time video to represent low-speed collisions. This tool simulates the circumstances recollected by the driver, which the accident reconstructionist compares to the crash data. It factors maximum speed, distance, movement, braking, and acceleration into the reconstruction. The VBOX helps support or dispute a driver’s statements.
3D Laser Scanner and Scene Reconstruction
The FARO 3D laser scanner quickly records indoor and outdoor environment data to preserve vehicle positions, measurements, distances, damages, and scene information. The scanner maps this data onto several million coordinates to create a photo-realistic replica. The replica can form the basis of a 3D animation of how the collision happened.
HVE 2D and 3D Accident Reconstruction Software
The HVE 2D and 3D accident reconstruction software uses physics to simulate the collision and how it would have caused injuries.
Reconstruction Experts
Our mechanical engineers who work on accident scenes are called accident reconstructionists. Many of our engineers hold ACTAR and ASE certifications in addition to state-issued professional engineering (P.E.) licenses.
Most states require the following achievements before an engineer receives a P.E. license:
- Completing a four-year degree in engineering
- Working for a professional engineer for at least four years
- Passing comprehensive exams
- Pursuing additional training
Accident reconstructionists work with biomechanical engineers, mechanical engineers, and tire experts. Biomechanical engineers determine whether injuries reported from the crash match the force of impact and other factors.
These consultations provide valuable information for accident reconstruction engineering and expert witness testimony.
About ATS and Our Family of Companies
ATS is a leading industrial testing and inspection firm in North America. We provide consulting engineering, calibrations, inspections, and testing services. We utilize our family of companies’ expansive capabilities to meet all your needs in each of our four pillars of service.
ATS has been certified by A2LA to perform mechanical, nondestructive, calibration, and electrical tests. Our nondestructive testing labs are NADCAP accredited as well. We also meet ISO 9001:2015 requirements for quality management systems.
Our family companies have impressive achievements and recognition. Regardless of which location you choose, we review your evidence in a trustworthy and state-of-the-art lab.
Contact Us
The evidence does not lie, and neither do we. Call +1 (888) 287-5227 to learn more about our accident reconstruction engineering services. To immediately request our help, fill out the form on this page.
