Case: Iris Corea v Jared Kim

Expert Accident Reconstruction and Traffic Signal Analysis for Complex Intersection Collision

Location: Tropicana Avenue at Southbound I-15 On-ramp
Las Vegas, NV

Client: Pyka Lenhardt Schnaider
David P. Lenhardt, Esq.
Santa Ana, CA

Case Description

Auto versus Auto Collision

Incident Overview:

This case involved a complex auto collision at a signalized intersection in Las Vegas, NV. The accident occurred under daylight conditions when a westbound vehicle made a left turn into the side of an eastbound vehicle at the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and the Southbound I-15 On-ramp. The intersection had a complicated interconnection with signals at adjacent ramps, making the state of the traffic signals at the time of the collision a crucial element of the case.

Services Provided:

Accident Reconstruction: EES meticulously reconstructed the collision to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the crash. This involved recreating vehicle trajectories, speeds, and point of impact, providing a clear picture of the incident.

Traffic Signal Design and Operation Analysis: EES evaluated the traffic signal design and operation at the intersection to identify any potential malfunctions or discrepancies in signal behavior that may have contributed to the accident.

Traffic Signal Interconnection Operation: Our team analyzed the interconnection between the signals at adjacent ramps to understand their influence on the signal controlling the accident site.

Traffic Signal Timing: We conducted an in-depth analysis of the traffic signal timing to assess whether the signal phases were correctly timed and if they could have impacted the drivers’ actions.

Visibility Analysis: EES examined the visibility at the intersection, considering factors such as road layout, signal positioning, and any potential obstructions that could have affected the drivers’ line of sight.

Expert Witness Testimony: Our experts provided credible and clear testimony in court, explaining the technical aspects of the accident reconstruction and traffic signal operations in a manner that was easily understood by the jury.

Issues Addressed

Accident Reconstruction

Recreating the Collision to Determine Fault EES reconstructed the sequence of events leading up to the collision using advanced techniques and tools. This analysis was critical in determining which driver was at fault and if external factors, such as signal timing or interconnections, contributed to the crash.

Traffic Signal Design and Operation

Evaluating Signal Functionality and Design The design and operation of the traffic signals at this intersection were key in understanding how the collision occurred. EES evaluated whether the signal design and its operation adhered to traffic standards and how it may have impacted driver decision-making.

Traffic Signal Interconnection Operation

Analyzing Signal Coordination The signals at this intersection were interconnected with adjacent ramps, making their coordination an essential factor in the case. EES analyzed whether the signals operated as intended and if any malfunction or miscommunication between signals played a role in the accident.

Traffic Signal Timing

Assessing the Impact of Signal Phasing The timing of the traffic signals at the intersection was closely examined to determine if incorrect phasing or malfunctioning signals could have contributed to the collision. EES provided insights into whether signal timing was appropriate for the intersection’s layout.

Visibility Analysis

Understanding Driver Line of Sight Visibility at the intersection was critical in evaluating whether the drivers could see the signals and each other before the collision. EES conducted a thorough analysis to assess any potential visibility issues that may have contributed to the crash.

Expert Witness Testimony

Delivering Clear and Credible Testimony Our professionals provided expert witness testimony in court, translating the complex technical findings of our reconstruction, signal analysis, and visibility study into clear, understandable language. Our testimony was instrumental in presenting the facts of the case to the judge and jury.

Client Benefits

Accurate Reconstruction: The comprehensive accident reconstruction provided the legal team with a detailed understanding of the events leading up to the crash.

Informed Decision-Making: Our analysis of the traffic signal design, timing, and interconnection provided critical insights that supported the case’s arguments.

Credible Testimony: Our expert witness testimony played a key role in simplifying complex technical concepts for the court, helping to clarify the issues at hand.