Liability is not always clear after a car accident. But since New Mexico is an at-fault state for car accidents, it is critical to be able to identify the at-fault driver to recover fair compensation. This is where accident reconstruction may come into play.
The experienced Albuquerque car accident lawyers from Caruso Law Offices, P.C. sometimes leverage the help of accident reconstruction experts. We can explain what these experts do and how they can help your case. Call us today for a free case review to learn more.
What Is Albuquerque Accident Reconstruction?
Accident reconstruction is a field that analyzes factors that contributed to accidents, including motor vehicle accidents. Insurance companies, government agencies, and law firms sometimes hire accident reconstructionists to provide a scientific opinion about why a particular accident occurred. Ultimately, this practice helps determine how an accident occurred and who is at fault for it.
Accident reconstruction experts often have backgrounds in physics, vehicle dynamics, mathematics, and other branches of science. They use this specialized knowledge and training to make scientific conclusions. They may create written reports or develop 3D models to demonstrate how a particular accident occurred.
How Does Albuquerque Accident Reconstruction Work?
Accident reconstruction experts document and study evidence at the accident scene to develop a conclusion about what caused the accident. Reconstructing an accident often involves several steps, including:
- Going to the physical crash site to document and preserve evidence
- Extracting electronic data from the vehicles’ event data recorders, when applicable
- Reviewing video of the accident from dashcams, traffic cameras, or surveillance cameras
- Analyzing photos of the accident scene and physical evidence, such as skid marks and tire treads
- Inspecting the vehicles involved in the accident
- Reading the police report and any witness statements
- Reviewing crash test reports and published studies
- Evaluating the victims’ medical records
This thorough analysis can often help determine which factors contributed to the crash, such as:
- Speeding
- Delayed reactions (which may indicate impairment or distracted driving)
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Loss of driver control
- A mechanical failure or defective auto part
- Weather
How Can an Accident Reconstruction Expert Help My Case?
Accident reconstruction professionals can influence your personal injury claim in many ways, including:
- Proving liability: 3D animated presentations can provide visual depictions of how the various factors contributed to an accident that insurance companies, judges, and juries can view.
- Supporting damage claims: These visual depictions can often help support a victim’s claim for damages, showcasing the severity of injuries they suffered.
- Providing expert testimony: Accident reconstructionists often appear in court and testify as expert witnesses, which is possible when they have special education, experience, or training in specific areas. They can explain complex topics to the judge and jury.
Additionally, having an expert witness on your side can often help settle a claim since the insurance company may not be able to present a valid defense.
Contact an Experienced Albuquerque Car Accident Lawyer for Help with Accident Reconstruction
At Caruso Law Offices, P.C., we can hire accident reconstruction experts in appropriate cases and manage this professional relationship to help your case. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.