ABSTRACT
During the years that the authors have been practicing forensic engineering and in particular in the area of accident investigation and reconstruction, it has become evident that there is a great need for standardization. However, there is great opposition to the development of standards. The primary reason for the opposition to standards in accident reconstruction is the diverse nature of the individuals and groups who perform accident investigations and reconstructions. There are three main groups of people performing investigations and reconstructions. One group may be classified as engineers or scientists who have formal training in mathematics and the sciences. Some of these individuals are members of or are represented by the National Association of Forensic Engineers (NAFE). The second group is comprised of individuals who have police or investigative backgrounds. Their level of training is generally associated with the Institute of Police Training and Management (IPTM) or the Northwestern University Traffic Institute. Many of these individuals may also have training associated with the National Association of Professional Accident Reconstruction Specialists (NAPARS) and the Accrediting Council for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR). The third group of individuals consist mainly of professionals in the areas of visibility, reaction, and conspicuity. The level of expertise of those who practice in these endeavors is quite diverse.
