How We Do It

COLLISION RECONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY

With a wide range of experience in integral areas of traffic accident investigation and reconstruction, ICA is fully equipped to assist in all aspects of the accident investigation and reconstruction process. We understand that each incident is unique and requires expert reconstruction assistance in order to determine what methods to apply to identify the facts for each of our clients.

METHODOLOGY OVERVIEW

VEHICLE INSPECTIONS

A critical component of the crash investigation process is vehicle inspections. ICA follows industry accepted methods to obtain crucial information when performing these inspections including:

  • Photographs

  • Measurements

  • Documentation of Vehicle Equipment Conditions

  • Documentation of Damage and Determining if Damage Was Actually Due to the Crash

  • Forensic Lamp Examination

  • In-House Microscopic Examination

  • Data Retrieval and Analysis

  • 3D Photogrammetry and Modeling

Commercial VEHICLE INSPECTIONS

ICA’s commercial vehicle program takes vehicle inspections to the next level. Our team members are very experienced and knowledgeable in heavy duty truck systems, and our response vehicles are prepared and equipped to handle the unique challenges posed by damaged heavy vehicles. By rebuilding or repairing damaged circuits or compromised air systems, our team can perform the equivalent of DOT Level 1 inspections on even the most challenging vehicles. Typical Commercial Vehicle Inspections include:

  • Photographs

  • Documentation of Damage

  • Electronic Data Retrieval

  • Collision Mitigation Systems

  • Cab Components

  • Tires

  • Air Brake Systems

  • Lighting

  • Conspicuity Systems

  • Loading

  • Measurements/Weights

  • 3D Photogrammetry and Modeling

  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Alliance (FMCSA) Compliance

FORENSIC MAPPING

Our associates have mapped hundreds of scenes and vehicles. Whether a result of a Rapid Response, or in the course of our due diligence during an investigation, we approach our site and vehicle inspections with the professionalism and attention to detail as we did for many years as law enforcement. UAV’s, total stations and 3D scanners are used to produce clear and concise data to aid in the reconstruction of accidents. Mapping data is used to preserve evidence, record measurements and create 2D and 3D scale diagrams and models.

  • On-Site Presence
  • Scene and Evidence Documentation
  • Photographs
  • Video
  • Photogrammetry using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s)
  • Total Station
  • 3D Scanning
FORENSIC LAMP EXAMINATIONS

ICA uses this form of specialized testing on a regular basis in order to determine whether or not a vehicle’s lights were on or off at the time of the collision.

Our standard inspections include identifying and documenting the condition of lamps using macro photography. However, if further analysis is required or requested, we are equipped to perform in-house microscopic examinations of incandescent bulbs.

DATA RETRIEVAL AND ANALYSIS

We have been imaging passenger vehicle event data since the introduction of the Bosch Crash Data Retrieval (CDR) Tool, which is commonly referred to as the “Black Box”. This tool provides additional insight based on the information it downloads from the Air Bag Control Modules (ACM). In addition to passenger vehicles, we specialize in Heavy Commercial Vehicle data retrieval. We can image most on-vehicle engine control modules (ECM), anti-lock brake modules, and crash mitigation system modules.

Our certified CDR Technicians perform all CDR imaging, and the interpretation of the data is performed by our certified CDR Analysts. Additionally, our inventory of special equipment, training, and experience enable us to retrieve data from all CDR covered passenger vehicles as well as:

  • OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes

  • Garmin Personal GPS Devices

  • Detroit Diesel / Mercedes Engines

  • Cummins Engines

  • Caterpillar Engines

  • Paccar Engines

  • International / NavStar Engines

  • Bendix Modules

  • Meritor-Wabco Modules

Site Processing

Whether a result of a Rapid Response, or in the course of our due diligence during an investigation, we approach our site inspections with the professionalism and attention to detail as we did for many years as law enforcement. Our site processing services include:

  • On-Site Presence
  • Photogrammetry using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s)
  • Scene and Evidence Documentation
  • Photographs
  • Video
  • Forensic Mapping
  • 3D Scanning
3D SCANNING AND 3D MODELS

The use of 3D scanning and models provides a visualization of the scene and/or vehicles in order to convey a simpler understanding of complex concepts. ICA uses state of the art technologies to create high resolution, ultra-realistic, 3D models of scenes and vehicles.

  • 3D Laser Scanners

  • UAV’s/Drones

  • 4K Cameras with Photogrammetry Software

SPEED CALCULATIONS

As part of a complete reconstruction package, we are regularly called upon to give opinions on vehicle speed in relation to a collision. Such opinions are developed using the practices and principles obtained from our many hours of training in basic and advanced level collision reconstruction, with the added benefit of having two former SCRT members with Mechanical Engineering degrees on our team. Once speeds of the vehicles involved in the accident are determined, we are able to perform Time-Distance Analyses incorporating driver perception and reaction times to illustrate how the collision occurred. Most importantly, we can highlight causation factors and opportunities for preventability to those parties involved.

TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES

  • UAV’s/Drones
  • 4K Cameras with Photogrammetry Software
  • Total Stations
  • 3D Laser Scanners
  • Bosch Crash Data Retrieval (CDR)
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicle Data Retrieval Systems
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicle Scales
  • Fully Equipped Response Vehicles with Portable Air Supply
  • Virtual Crash Simulation Software
  • In-house Microscopic Examination

Commercial Motor Vehicles

Passenger Vehicles

Pedestrians

Bicycles

Motorycles

Experienced

Law Enforcement Background

Qualified Experts

24 Hour Response

Engineering Education

Unsurpassed Training