Velocity Histories as an Accident Reconstruction Tool

The objective of this paper is to illustrate how the use of velocity diagrams of both vehicle and occupant motion can be of great assistance to the accident reconstructionist. The technique, best applied in the early stages of the reconstruction process, is recommended to (1) reduce the likelihood of arithmetic or equation misapplication errors, (2) permit estimates for such accident parameters as mutual crush and impact duration, and (3) provide insights into the critical issues of the reconstruction. For analyzing occupant motion, reasonably realistic models of compartment response are proposed based on either a cosine model or a model derived from the CRASH computer programs.