The application of the basic laws of physics and the use of mathematical analysis in crash investigation and interpretation have become common practice amongst accident investigators. The outcome of the analysis, however, is very dependent upon the at-scene investigation, including the collection and interpretation of physical evidence. Once all data is gathered crash reconstructors can commence their analysis. If the basis for reconstruction is inappropriate the conclusions made will be misleading, often with dire consequences for the parties involved. The paper describes the analysis of a multiple vehicle collision in the United Kingdom using simple mathematics. The incident had resulted in criminal charges being laid against the driver of a heavy vehicle. The defence and prosecution interpreted the physical evidence very differently. The paper outlines the claims made by both parties and the way in which the case was resolved. (A) For the covering entry of this conference, please see IRRD abstract No. E200025.
Samenvatting