Human Factors in Traffic Crash Reconstruction

This foundational program investigates the psychological and physiological elements that contribute to traffic collisions, focusing on understanding the "why" behind each incident. Through a combination of classroom instruction, interactive discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and practical field work, participants develop insight into the critical role human factors play in determining collision causation. The course emphasizes how fragile human evidence can be and reinforces why rigorous analysis and interpretation of physical evidence remains essential to effective collision investigation.

Beyond examining driver, vehicle, and roadway considerations, this program presents current research that establishes best practices for conducting scientifically sound crash investigations and comprehending driver behavior within the context of ordinary driving circumstances.

Key Topics Covered

• Scientific principles underlying driver reaction time
• Appropriate timing standards for distance and time calculations
• Implementation of correct investigation methodology
• Performance factors including age, substance use, fatigue, attention division, and distraction
• Driver perception and response time dynamics across different crash scenarios
• Daytime versus nighttime visibility considerations
• Visual search patterns and eye movement behavior
• Acceleration and steering characteristics
• Variables affecting speed selection by drivers
• Significant vehicle and roadway elements to evaluate
• Contrast, illumination, anticipation, visual pattern matching, and object size effects on nighttime recognition
• Camouflage principles and their application to roadway hazard visibility
• Distinction between warning cues and distracting elements
• Documentation techniques for nighttime incidents where recognition factors are relevant

Program Details

Duration: 40 hours

Target Audience: Law enforcement professionals, private sector crash investigators, insurance claims adjusters, transportation engineers, prosecutors, occupational safety specialists, military investigators, and visual media professionals including animators and designers.

Prerequisites: Completion of IPTM's Advanced Traffic Crash Investigation course or equivalent is mandatory. Participants lacking substantial mathematical and physics competency are strongly encouraged to complete IPTM's 16-hour Re-Introduction to Math and Physics (Online) course beforehand.

Requirements: A functioning laptop computer is necessary for accessing course materials and electronic resources.

Professional Credits: The program qualifies for 40 ACTAR Continuing Education Units.

Special Funding: Florida-based sworn law enforcement officers may access FDOT grant-funded enrollment opportunities. Federal and military law enforcement personnel residing in Florida are not eligible for grant funding.

Scheduled Sessions

Louisiana
October 5-9, 2026
Scott, Louisiana
Lafayette Parish SO Training Center
Room TBD, 1825 West Willow Street, Building 2
Scott, LA 70583
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Fee: $995.00
Instructor: Tim Maloney

California
October 26-30, 2026
Irvine, California
Quail Hill Community Center
Multipurpose Room, 39 Shady Canyon Drive
Irvine, CA 92603
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Fee: $995.00
Instructor: Tim Maloney