Hawkins’ Road Traffic Collision (RTC) experts recently attended the Institute of Traffic Accident Investigators (ITAI) Crash Day, held at the Darley Moor Race Circuit in Derbyshire. Throughout the day, collision investigation professionals from across the UK were invited to observe and analyse a series of controlled crash tests designed to simulate real-world road traffic incidents, along with lectures from experts in the field and exhibitions showcasing the latest developments in collision reconstruction, road safety and engineering. This year’s event saw collaboration with Passive Safety UK and Safer Roadsides.
Our experts witnessed eight staged collisions, including a 20mph car versus pedestrian impact, a 50mph T-Bone crash and a saloon car impacting the rear of an HGV at high speed. Multiple crash scenarios were performed with support from Passive Safety UK, involving impacts with passively safe roadside items, such as a high-capacity aluminium post (HCP) and communications cabinets. This highlighted their potential lifesaving capabilities in comparison to collisions involving traditional roadside objects such as steel lighting columns and signposts.
After each crash, attendees were invited onto the track to observe vehicle damage, tyre marks and measure post impact positions. The demonstrations provided a rare opportunity to study the physical consequences of different types of collisions in a controlled environment, offering valuable insights into vehicle dynamics, occupant safety, and post-collision evidence. Our experts were able to participate in vehicle handling demonstrations, which included experiencing Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB) live in action in a vehicle fitted with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Road traffic collisions can involve a wide variety of vehicles and circumstances. Our experts are experienced in collision reconstruction, analysis of vehicle and scene data, and assessing crashworthiness in a wide range of incidents involving cars, motorcycles, heavy goods vehicles, and bicycles.
If you’re looking for an RTC investigator, or a Hawkins expert from another discipline to support you with a case, please get in touch.
