Library

This is a linked index to all articles and tools on our web site. 

Automotive Event Data Recorders

     On-board crash data event recorders (black boxes) are now installed on many new cars and light trucks.  These devices record a vehicle's speed, seat belt use, brake application and more for up to 5 seconds before an impact.

Drag Sleds

     The Drag Sled Versus New Technology: A valuable investigative tool or a dinosaur that has met it's time? A critical look at the current technology of determining drag factors for accident reconstruction. By David Rander, Kerry Fleming, and Matthew King.

Skid Speed Calculator

     This is an on-line calculator that will provide the minimum speed of a car through a skid. It is not a substitute for a thorough collision analysis by a qualified accident reconstructionist.

Skidmarks

     These are two articles on determining speeds from skid marks and evaluating skid mark evidence.

Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is used in many different fields including topographic mapping, engineering,
archeology and police traffic crash and crime scene investigations.

Antilock Brakes - What they can and cannot do . . .

     Antilock brakes have distinctive characteristics. This article explains some performance aspects of first generation anti-lock brakes.

Anti-Lock Brakes - Some good news, some bad news . . .

      Anti-lock brakes are impressive performers on the test track and in car commercials. But there are instances where ABS has produced unexpected results. Find out more about anti-lock brakes here.

Errors in Accident Reconstruction

      Mistakes can be made when faced with complex accident situations. This article addresses some of the more common pitfalls faced by accident analysts.

Computer Animation - Is it the right tool to use?

     A very good article on the use of computer animations in the courtroom.

Night-time Photography

     A short article on some of the technical difficulties of trying to obtain a photographic image of what a driver could have or should have seen just before an accident during the hours of darkness or periods of twilight.

How Credible are Eyewitnesses?

     Eyewitness testimony is often considered the most reliable. But is it? This article examines the ability, or inability, of eyewitnesses to correctly recall situations.

Human Factors - Perception and Reaction

     Human factors play a role in almost every accident. Perception-reaction times are used in the reconstruction traffic accidents. Find out where the current values come from and how they are applied to various situations.

Lamp Examination to Determine On or Off in a Collision

     There are ways to tell if the headlights, taillights or brake lights on a car were on or off following a collision. This article details some of the things to look for when conducting a lamp examination.

Environmental Factors - Determining Ambient Light Levels

     A large percentage of accidents happen just at sunset and sunrise. Do you know how to tell when civil twilight begins and ends? Many states require headlights to be used in conjunction with civil twilight. The possibility of glare from the sun can also be analyzed. This article provides details and resources on determining the position of the sun and moon for any place on Earth at any time and where to obtain historical weather data. Updated in 2005.

Tractor-Trailer Underride

     Tractor-trailer underride accidents cause severe injuries and deaths. This type of accident is very complex. Analyzing these cases requires a unique understanding of the factors involved. This is a collection of three articles on tractor-trailer underrides by Joe Badger.