Crash Bytes (July '07)

(Double-click on the photos to enlarge.)

Liability Weight Reduction

Did you know that vehicle velocities can be calculated for all vehicles involved in an accident, with accuracy down to 1/2 mph? It's technical, involving accurate measurements of vehicle positions, impact angles, crush damage, and skid marks, but it can be accomplished economically in almost all cases. By the way, how many drivers actually drive at the posted speed? We find that very few do. And if the other vehicle driver in your case can be clearly shown as partially responsible for the accident, wouldn't that dramatically reduce your potential liability?

Case In Point: An insured 2001 Ford Ranger entered an intersection and was struck broadside by an oncoming 1995 Olds 88, which clearly had the right-of-way. Our analysis of the vehicle speeds at impact determined that the CV was traveling at 11-12 mph above the speed limit -- nothing extraordinary there. However, we also clearly showed that the accident would not have happened had the CV been traveling at the posted speed limit. In addition, our analysis clearly demonstrated that the IV was visible to the oncoming CV driver for more than 3 seconds prior to impact -- more than enough time to avoid the accident (if the CV driver had been paying attention to the roadway . . . ooops!). We believe our client's liability was substantially reduced in this case, and the overall cost of the analysis was a small fraction of the total exposure. We call that a win, win, win!