Traffic Crash Reconstruction

Course Overview

This advanced program represents the third course in a three-course series offered by IPTM. Building on the foundational knowledge from the Advanced Traffic Crash Investigation course, this intensive training delves deeper into the physics and mathematics underlying vehicle collision analysis. Participants will engage in rigorous study of temporal and distance calculations, two-dimensional momentum principles, and techniques for determining impact velocities using momentum-based equations.

Course Content

The curriculum covers several critical areas in traffic crash reconstruction, including:

• Understanding the mathematical basis and historical development of commonly applied speed calculation formulas
• Calculating vehicle velocities at the moment of impact using principles of linear momentum conservation
• Analyzing vehicle behavior during collisions with reference to Newton's three laws of motion
• Examining the unique dynamics of commercial vehicles and motorcycles in collision scenarios
• Establishing vehicle direction of travel, identifying initial points of contact, and determining positions on the roadway

Students will complete extensive hands-on project assignments throughout the course, providing practical experience in reconstruction methodology. Each participant will diagram and analyze multiple crash scenarios and perform vector sum analysis to reinforce learned concepts.

Course Length and Schedule

This program consists of 80 hours of instruction, typically delivered over a two-week period with class sessions from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Intended Audience

This course is designed for law enforcement professionals and private traffic crash investigators, insurance claims adjusters, engineers, attorneys, safety officers, military investigative personnel, as well as animators and graphic designers involved in collision analysis and reconstruction work.

Prerequisites and Recommended Preparation

Due to the highly technical nature of the subject matter, successful completion of IPTM's Advanced Traffic Crash Investigation course (or equivalent training) is mandatory. Participants without a solid foundation in mathematics and physics are strongly encouraged to complete IPTM's 16-hour Re-Introduction to Math and Physics online course prior to enrollment.

Materials and Equipment

Students must bring a scientific calculator and compass to all sessions. A 1.5-inch three-ring binder is recommended for organizing course materials.

Cost

The course fee is $1,195.00. This course is not eligible for certificate discounts.

Important Notes

Florida law enforcement officers should be aware that successful completion of this course does not qualify for Salary Incentive Credit under the FDLE "Traffic Accident Reconstruction" designation. Additionally, ACTAR-accredited individuals may retake this course for continuing education units only once every five years following their initial five-year accreditation period.