Vehicle Data Sources for Accident Reconstruction

A major component in reconstructing motor vehicle accidents is the use of accurate data about the vehicles involved in the accident. Whether the reconstruction is done manually or with the aid of computers, the accuracy of the reconstruction is directly proportional to the accuracy of the vehicle data. Unfortunately, the vehicle data is not always available from the actual vehicles involved in the accident. In these instances, the reconstructionist must obtain data that best approximates the original vehicles. In lieu of finding, measuring, and weighing identical vehicles, the data is available through publications, trade associations, and other common sources. This paper describes these sources and how the information can be obtained.