TITLE:
The Accuracy Analysis of Measurement Tools for Traffic Accident Investigation
AUTHORS:
Darja Topolšek, Elvis A. Herbaj, Marjan Sternad
KEYWORDS:
Traffic Accident; Measurement Tools; Data Accuracy
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Transportation Technologies,
Vol.4 No.1,
January
23,
2014
ABSTRACT: The objective of traffic accident reconstruction is to
recreate the event, which is necessary for analyzing the collision dynamics
that is used as evidence in court cases. Traffic accident reconstruction and a
demonstration of the event require precise data pertaining to scene
measurement. However, there are differences between the individual measuring
tools and methods related to traffic accident investigation, just as there
are differences between the extent of their use and measurement accuracy. The
most commonly applied method is the measuring tape, followed by measurements
with total stations and laser rangefinders, while photogrammetry is also
becoming increasingly important. The advantages and disadvantages of individual
tools and methods affect the required number of investigators, portability,
measurement range, applicability depending on the amount of light and weather
conditions, on the possibility of remote measurement, on data collection time,
on the scope, on the option to later process, the collected data
and above all on the accuracy of all gathered data. The latter is crucial for
proving the guilt or innocence of traffic accident participants at court, as
inaccurate data can lead to an unjust sentence. Measurement accuracy using the
above mentioned tools and methods also varies depending on which ones are used,
as well as on other factors.