Training Courses

Commercial Vehicle Crash Investigation - Level I by IPTM

Date & Time:
  • September 28, 2026 – October 2, 2026
Location:
Elyria, OH

Commercial Vehicle Crash Investigation - Level I

This comprehensive course represents the first offering in the Commercial Vehicle Crash Investigation series and is designed as an intensive training program covering the distinctive features and collision dynamics specific to commercial motor vehicles.

Throughout this course, participants will gain thorough instruction on commercial motor vehicle nomenclature and operational characteristics. The curriculum emphasizes the mechanical components and systems that are critical to understanding how they function and may contribute to collision analysis. The program combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on exercises and real-world vehicle testing to reinforce learning outcomes.

Course Topics

  • Tractor-trailer nomenclature and identification
  • Brake systems configuration and operational principles
  • Wheels, rims, and tire specifications
  • Steering suspensions and frame structures
  • Trailer coupling devices and fifth wheel operation
  • Driver compliance and logbook requirements
  • Vehicle component analysis
  • Center of mass calculations
  • Skid mark measurements and speed determination
  • Jackknifing incidents and analysis
  • Rollover dynamics
  • Vehicle dynamics in braking scenarios
  • Weight shifting and load distribution

Target Audience

This course is appropriate for law enforcement professionals, private traffic crash investigators, claims adjusters, engineers, attorneys, safety personnel, military investigative personnel, animators, and graphic designers.

Course Details

Duration: 40 hours

Fee: $895.00

Class Schedule: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Prerequisites

Participants must have successfully completed IPTM's Advanced Traffic Crash Investigation course or an equivalent program. A solid understanding of investigative techniques and mathematical formula applications from a foundational course is essential, as this program builds upon and expands concepts previously learned.

Required Materials

Participants must bring a scientific calculator to complete course activities.

Recommended Items

  • Work clothes suitable for outdoor activities and varying weather conditions
  • Camera and necessary equipment for documenting field exercises

Continuing Education Credit

Successful completion of this course qualifies participants for 40 ACTAR Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Scheduled Sessions

Jacksonville, Florida: July 13-17, 2026 | Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 | Instructor: Ward Holton

Elyria, Ohio: September 28 - October 2, 2026 | Lorain County HIDTA Office, Room TBD, 201 Burns Road, Elyria, OH 44035

Jacksonville, Florida: August 9-13, 2027 | Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Related Courses

This institution also offers Commercial Vehicle Crash Investigation - Level I (Online), Commercial Vehicle Crash Investigation - Level I (Online Accelerated), and Commercial Vehicle Crash Investigation - Level II for those seeking additional instruction in this subject area.