What Is Accident Reconstruction in a Personal Injury Claim? 

Vehicle accidents happen fast. Often, it’s difficult to remember all the details about the accident, even if you were involved firsthand. But when it comes to legal matters, it’s important to know exactly what happened and why. 

That’s where accident reconstruction comes in. If you’re filing a personal injury claim in New Jersey, learning about accident reconstruction can help you enormously. 

So, what is accident reconstruction in a personal injury claim? And how can it affect the outcome of your case? 

Not to worry — we have all the answers you’re seeking. Read on to discover more about what accident reconstruction is and how the attorneys at Rosengard Law Group can help you use it to your advantage. 

What Is Accident Reconstruction? 

Accident reconstruction is a type of forensic analysis that is often used in car accident lawsuits. It refers to the process of investigating and analyzing an accident to determine exactly how and why it occurred. 

Essentially, the goal is to recreate the accident through the use of evidence. If we can reconstruct the scene, we can better understand all the contributing factors and events that took place. 

The Role of Accident Reconstruction in a Personal Injury Claim

The outcome of a personal injury claim is typically determined by who was at fault. But car accidents can be complicated, and if we can’t figure out whose fault it was, it might throw a wrench into your case. 

That’s why accident reconstruction is particularly useful in personal injury cases. The evidence gleaned can be used to determine fault, which can confirm your innocence and reinforce your claim. 

Knowing when to use accident reconstruction is also important. For example, it would likely be required in the following circumstances: 

• You can’t remember important details about how the accident occurred.
• There are no witnesses.
• Liability or fault is difficult to prove.
• There are significant gaps in evidence.
• The accident resulted in severe injuries or death. 

Accident Reconstruction Process & Key Elements

Accident reconstruction in NJ can look different depending on each case. But there are some key elements that are almost always involved. Here’s what the process typically looks like. 

Gathering Evidence 

The first step in the reconstruction process is to gather evidence. To create a comprehensive picture of the incident, experts need to know as much as possible about every detail of the accident. 

Some common types of evidence used in the reconstruction process include: 

• Skid marks
• Vehicle damage
• Debris patterns 
• Eyewitness testimony 
• Road conditions
• Environmental factors
• Police reports
• Photographic and video evidence

Analyzing Evidence

After gathering as much evidence as possible, experts then begin to analyze their findings. In a way, they work backward, using the aftermath of the accident to determine what caused it.

For example, experts might study the physical evidence — such as tire marks, vehicle damage, road conditions, or debris patterns — to learn more about the speed, direction, or angles of the vehicles involved.

Experts will also analyze police reports, eyewitness testimony, and any photos or video footage that can offer more insight into the mechanics of the accident. All of this evidence can provide information about who was at fault and why. 

Use of Technology

Many accident reconstruction experts have started to make use of high-tech tools to get the best and most accurate results possible.

Computer simulation software or 3D laser scanning can provide a detailed replication of the accident. Drone mapping offers a bird’s-eye view of the scene, which can be especially helpful in large-scale accidents involving multiple vehicles. 

How Reconstruction Reports Are Used in Court 

If your case goes to court, accident reconstruction findings can be a big help. They can clarify the facts of the case and determine who was at fault and why. Sometimes, a reconstruction expert may even appear in court to interpret their findings for the judge and jury. 

Remember, though, that not all evidence is admissible in New Jersey. Reconstruction reports need to meet certain criteria to be used in court, such as being accurate, relevant, and based on sound scientific principles. 

The Impact of Accident Reconstruction on Personal Injury Claims

Accident reconstruction can significantly affect the outcome of personal injury claims in many ways. By clarifying muddy details about a particular accident, reconstruction can impact fault designation, settlement negotiations, or the amount of compensation you might receive. 

Using accident reconstruction in your personal injury claim can strengthen your case, which means you may have an improved chance of recovering full compensation.

Strengthen Your Personal Injury Claim With Rosengard Law Group

Our team of experienced attorneys is ready to assist you. By using accident reconstruction, along with many other legal tools, methods, and resources, Rosengard Law Group can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. 

If you’re ready to seek justice, contact our team to schedule a consultation completely free of charge. You can reach our attorneys by calling 856-284-6446 or filling out our contact form today.