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Occupant Kinematics / Accident Analysis
Human Factors / Ergonomics
Biomechanics

Forensic Services

Successful investigations usually require diligence in three distinct areas:

• Fact Finding
• Examination
• Analysis and Incident Reconstruction.

Fact Finding is the task of identifying and documenting features which describe the physical conditions before, during and after the accident. Examination and Analysis is the task of determining technical facts through laboratory and analytical methods. Incident Reconstruction is the task of assembling all available information related to an incident, constructing feasible explanations and determining which explanation best fits the facts.

The results of technical investigations are opinions concerning what happened and why it happened, the confidence level of the opinions and the identification of facts which support the opinions. During this process it is absolutely critical that the expert anticipates alternative explanations and identifies areas of uncertainty, weakness and confusion. It is imperative that the expert identify and review the relevant facts as they are perceived and may be presented at trial from both sides. He/she must thoroughly prepare for all relevant topics in order to minimize the element of surprise. This will also result in greater insight about the matter and provide a basis for more knowledgeable opinions and conclusions.

HPW is a professional, scientific and human engineering consulting group that can provide a wide range of legal services. Specific expertise is the investigation of accidents involving people as they interact with the environment. See case histories for exemplar cases. Scientific investigation, technical reporting and expert testimony are the three major services provided to clients. Additional information is available upon request.

Scientific Investigation

The primary objectives of an investigation are to construct the best possible explanation of what happened and why and to demonstrate that the explanation has better technical support than feasible alternate explanations. As stated previously, successful investigations usually require diligence in three distinct areas: Fact Finding, Examination and Analysis, and Incident Reconstruction. Fact Finding is the task of identifying and documenting features which describe the physical conditions before, during and after the incident. Examination and Analysis is the task of determining technical facts through laboratory and analytical methods. Incident Reconstruction is the task of assembling all available information related to an incident, constructing feasible explanations and determining which explanation best fits the facts. The results of technical investigations are opinions concerning what happened and why it happened, the confidence level of the opinions and the identification of facts which support the opinions.

Technical Reporting

When the situation requires a formal report, HPW can provide a comprehensive, written report with illustrations and photographs and full presentation of technical facts which support the opinions developed as a result of the investigation. Reports are written to be understood by non-technical readers.

Expert Testimony

HPW scientists provide articulate explanations in a manner that jurors can understand. In preparation for a court appearance we will provide or participate in the development of a logical outline of the technical information to be presented and any necessary exhibits, such as charts, photographs and demonstration devices. Should you desire to use our services or request additional information, please contact HPW.

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