At Crashteams we use the simulation software tools that are industry verified and widely accepted. These include HVE, PC Crash and others. Crashteams experts use these tools only when the case requires it. Simulation of car crashes requires the user to input the conditions of the impact which includes impact speeds, wheel resistance, roadway surface conditions, steering angles and more.
Once those conditions are inputted, the user “ runs “ or “ plays “ the resulting simulation. The idea is simply to generate a simulation which is consistent with the actual vehicles motion as exhibited by scene evidence.
The user will then assume that since the vehicle movement appears consistent with the real motion, the inputted impact speeds must be correct. That is where the confusion and discussion comes into play. Experts then confuse the courts with very complex arguments about the input conditions, assumptions and even the accuracy of the software. At Crashteams, we avoid simulations unless we can verify all of the input conditions and withstand a rigorous cross examination regarding the simulation software.
When to use crash simulations?There are some cases that simulation software is highly useful but that likely represents only about 5% of all crash cases.
Why use Simulation?You may ask why so many experts use these programs. The answer is because they feel that using complex simulation software separates them from less technical competitor and distinguishes them as highly technical and state-of-the-art professionals.
They will often use simulation software to demonstrate how another expert is wrong and they may even get into arguments about whose software is the most accurate. Reality is, that most times, neither are as accurate as professed.
Comprehensive ReportsIn addition our experts will provide a simulation report (click to see sample) to verify that the time vs position and velocity information is 100% accurate.
Let us review other expert's simulationsAt Crashteams, we are experts at showing the sensitivity of simulations by generating a simulation mirroring the input data used by the opposing expert you must obtain that for us) and then ranging that data to show how even minor revisions of factors like wheel resistance and steer angles can lead to very large errors.
If you have a case that involves an expert's report founded on results from PC Crash, HVE or any of the SMAC software applications, we can provide you with an opinion on the accuracy of those result within 48 hours. Our report will not only include an opinion of the accuracy of the results put forward, but also a detailed overview of the accuracy of the simulation software in use.
Expert simulation software reviewsAs a general statement, both PC Crash and HVE are overused by experts who rely on the results too much and apply those software applications in cases where they really cannot know the necessary input data to generate useful results.
Our experts are knowledgeable in all software packages used commonly for simulations. Detailed reports form the backbone of our presentations in companion with other exhibits such as animation movies, photos, etc.
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Our ServicesOur Crashteams reconstructionists are the most highly trained and qualified individuals in the industry.
All Crashteams experts utilize survey equipment to produce precision crash scene diagrams and 3D models.
All Crashteams reconstructionists are qualified expert witnesses and have given testimony at all court levels and jurisdictions.
Your Crashteams experts can interview witnesses and secure detailed statements as recorded interviews in audio and video formats.
Crashteams experts are all trained and certified as forensic animators. You will find it advantageous that your reconstructionist and animator are the same person.
Crashteams experts are qualified to use many different software applications to simulate the crash for the purposes of answering what if scenarios and exposing errors in the hypotheses advanced by oppsing experts.
You may send us reports from opposing experts and we will be able to tell you immediately if a rebuttal is useful and if so, we produce professional, objective, commentaries.
Crashteams have the expertise coverage and manpower to take on all the crash investigation requirements of a community as a public private partnership.