Fatal Road Traffic Collisions

Government statistics shows a general down turn in the incidence of fatal road accident in the UK. However, when incidents do occur, the impact of such an event can be very catastrophic in terms of the effects on families, communities and the general economy.

In such cases it is essential that a thorough investigation is carried out and the evidence produced is robust providing an accurate and fair reflection of the facts.

Experience has shown that it is quite common that all contributory factors may not be fully explored or discussed which may have a significant influence on the overall outcome of a case.

There are occasions when a desk top exercise may suffice to validate an investigation examining witness testimony, records of interview and other expert evidence.

However it is advisable where serious criminal charges are proffered or the amount of civil compensation in a disputed liability is significant this warrants a full investigation of the circumstances.  

In Civil cases the report is often required where liability is in dispute. The greater the degree of personal injury the more likely it will be that liability is disputed. A point is reached where it becomes proportionate and justifiable to have an independent collision investigation report carried out.

In Criminal cases it often occurs that one’s liberty is at risk following a collision hence it is most appropriate that any investigation carried out by the Police is at least challenged in the interests of justice. It does occasionally happen that the Police have miscalculated a vehicle speed or misinterpreted some data. Sometimes even the way that a fact is presented can unintentionally mislead a jury.

KNC Forensic Accident Investigation provides a service line to include a comprehensive investigation resulting in a detailed technical expert report compliant with both Criminal and Civil procedure rules suitable for production at Court.

The following is an example of some of the methods used in an investigation:

 Calculation of speed from tyre brake marks / scrapes / gouges.

 Calculation of vehicle identification, speed assessment and movement from a forensic examination of CCTV evidence

 Vehicle speed based on pedestrian throw.

 Assessment of Pedestrian movements / walking speed.

 Acceleration tests.

 Sight lines.

 Using similar vehicles to reconstruct motion.

 Full locus report to include potential defects with signing, lighting, contamination and the effects of adverse weather conditions.

In general terms the report is produced as a result of a detailed forensic examination of the collision locus, mechanical inspection and damage profile of the vehicles involved, reconstructing the prior movements of vehicles / pedestrians.  A full consultancy service includes prior letter of advice and consultation at every stage of an investigation.

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