Could Accident Reconstruction Help Your Car Crash Claim?
Posted on behalf of Jeff Pitman on November 15, 2022
in Car Accidents
Updated on April 24, 2024
After a traffic accident, investigators are often able to figure out who was liable. However, car crash claims are not always cut and dry. There are many factors that could make a claim more challenging to resolve. For example, if one or both of the drivers involved are unwilling or unable to recall what happened. When car crash claims become complicated, accident reconstruction may be the best way to prove negligence.
At PKSD, we work hard every day for the injured victims we represent. Our firm has the staff and resources to fully manage your car crash claim. However, we also know when to bring in an accident reconstruction expert.
Injured in a car crash? Our auto crash lawyers in Milwaukee are experienced and ready to help. Request a FREE case review to get started. There are ZERO upfront costs if we represent you. We only get paid if we win your case.
What is Accident Reconstruction in a Car Crash Claim?
Accident reconstruction is a highly specialized field. The experts who do this work have extensive training and knowledge. Accident reconstruction is used in car crash claims where critical elements are unclear, even after a full investigation.
Here are some situations when accident reconstruction may benefit the injured victim:
- One or both drivers are unwilling or unable to recall how a crash happened
- Driver accounts of events leading up to a car crash are very different
- One or both drivers suffered life-threatening or fatal injuries
- The vehicles suffered extensive amounts of damage
- The crash is complicated and liability is unclear
- Witnesses are unable to give a clear statement about how the crash occurred
How Does Accident Reconstruction Differ From a Crash Scene Investigation?
A crash scene investigation typically occurs right away, while the evidence is fresh. Investigators examine the area where the crash occurred, along with other evidence, which may include:
- Driver statements
- Police report
- Vehicle damage
- Crash debris
- Witness statements
- Dash or traffic camera footage
- Crash scene photos
- And more
This approach is useful for many traffic accidents, but it may not always tell the whole story. For instance, the aftermath of a chain reaction crash is extremely chaotic. Sometimes, one collision may lead to a second crash, especially on busy highways. This is a prime situation where it may be harder to uncover what happened and who may be liable. Accident reconstruction is very beneficial in those types of cases. Experts use this scientific approach to recreate the collision and help reveal who or what events initiated it.
What Does an Accident Reconstruction Expert Do?
Accident reconstruction experts take things to another level. They examine the same evidence as the crash scene investigators. However, they also employ mathematics, physics and engineering concepts to go deeper and figure out what happened. These highly trained experts also use computer software to create a visual simulation of the crash. This extreme approach is not always needed, but it can be a deciding factor for some car crash claims.
If a car crash case ends up in court, these experts must also be able to explain their findings to the judge and jury. To provide the most benefit to a case, an accident reconstructionist must be likeable, credible and accepted as an expert in their field. Often, accident reconstructionists may also have a background in law enforcement.
When Does Accident Reconstruction Benefit a Car Crash Claim?
Car crash claims do not always need an accident reconstruction expert. If used, however, accident reconstruction may help uncover acts of driver negligence, such as:
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Unrepaired vehicle recalls
- Vehicle defects
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Red light runners
- Aggressive driving, such as following too close
- Force and angle of the vehicles at impact
If you are involved in a car crash caused by another driver’s negligence, we urge you to seek legal help right away. You may be eligible for significant compensation, which could help pay for your damages. Our lawyers are knowledgeable and dedicated to holding at-fault parties accountable for their actions. We always seek maximum compensation for our clients. If this means bringing in an expert to strengthen your case, we have the resources to do that.
How Much Does Accident Reconstruction Cost and Who Pays for It?
It is important to point out that there is an added cost for bringing in an accident reconstruction expert. However, you do not pay this cost up front or out of your own pocket. If accident reconstruction is needed, the cost is later deducted from any compensation awarded to you.
Rest assured that your attorney will not hire one unless he or she determines it will benefit your case.
Need Legal Help? Contact Our Firm Today
At PKSD, we have a strong history of proven results. Our team of legal professionals is ready to manage your claim fully so you can focus on your health. Not sure if you have a case? That is one of the benefits of the free initial consultation we offer. You can get answers to your questions and discuss your case, all with no cost or obligation to you.
Call today to learn more. There are strict deadlines for injury claims. Do not risk being able to recover your damages by calling an attorney too late. Our law offices can take your call seven days a week, 24 hours a day. We are here to help.
Our Trusted Law Firm is Ready to Help. 414-333-3333