Finding a strong accident reconstruction expert witness

A good accident reconstruction expert witness is the backbone of most accident cases. He or she can help you and the trier of fact visualize and understand each phase of the accident:

1. First possible perception. This is the location and point in time where an actor could have seen the danger.  Attentiveness, distractions, field of view, sight obstructions, or impairment can all bear on this phase.

2. Actual perception. This is difficult to pin down due to varying reaction times, but a probable range can be stated.

3. No escape. At what location and point in time the opportunity for a successful evasive action ends can be critical to assessing liability.

4. Action taken. Physical evidence or witness observations frequently reveal the point where the operator reacted.

5. Point of impact. Initial contact occurred at this location and time.

6. Point of maximum engagement. This occurs just prior to the colliding objects beginning to separate.

7. Final resting position. This is where the colliding objects ended up.

Early retention is important, for collision evidence can be volatile and short-lived.  Collision debris is cleaned up, skid marks fade, tire pressures decline, environmental conditions change, memories shift, witnesses disappear, and repairs are made.

Types of accident reconstruction expert witnesses

Suitable qualifications can vary widely with the type of accident. Any of these backgrounds could be appropriate in various cases:

a. Police officer
b. Physics professor
c. Auto mechanic
d. Race car driver
e. Mechanical engineer
f. Auto mechanic
g. Metallurgist
h. Optometrist

What evidence is to be analyzed is usually determinative of expert background.  If you want professional assistance in assessing and locating the accident reconstruction expert witness who would be most helpful to your case, contact Justine at 714-434-5929 or by email.