The Idaho State Police recently hosted the International Association of Accident Reconstruction Specialists 25th Annual Conference Meridian, Idaho. This seminar was very well balanced, starting with classroom presentations, field demonstrations, and follow-up discussions. 

Topics included the following:

• Truck Rollover Field Testing & Formula Validation

• On and off Road Critical Speed Scuff Testing & Formula Validation

• Anti-loss of Control & Stabilization Features

• Vision & Driving With Demonstrations, Involving Eye Movements, Perception & Reaction

• Momentum Validation Crash Testing With Multiple Departing units

• Field & Classroom Comparison of Various Data Collection Devices & Methods

• Scale diagrams & Analysis Results 

The flatbed trailer loaded with bales of hay used during testing. Note the outriggers installed to prevent a complete rollover and wreck!

During cornering, as the outrigger tire touches down, the opposite side trailer tire lefts off of the ground. 

Black scuff with orange paint, marks right side outrigger touchdown and left side trailer tire lift off.

Measuring the truck “rollover tire marks”

TRUCK ROLLOVER CONTINUED…

Dr. Frank Navin discussed procedures for measuring and calculating center of mass, lateral shift, and roll angles. Valid applications as well as limiting factors were illustrated. Ed Robertson of the Idaho State police also offered another version for calculating the rollover speed which matched up very closely to Dr. Navin’s presnetation. 

IAARS will be producing several CD’s with the complete seminar, including testing information and classroom materials for sale to members and the general public.