Advanced Traffic Crash Investigation

Course Overview

This course represents the second installment in a three-part series offered by the Institute of Police Technology and Management. Designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise, this program builds on foundational knowledge from the At-Scene Traffic Crash/Traffic Homicide Investigation course and explores sophisticated methodologies in traffic collision investigation.

Course Content

Participants will examine complex vehicle dynamics including acceleration, deceleration, airborne motion, and multi-vehicle scenarios. The curriculum covers techniques for determining vehicle speeds based on falls, vaults, and rollovers, as well as calculating kinetic energy and linear momentum. Students will learn to assess vehicle lighting systems, tire conditions, and collision damage patterns to reconstruct vehicle behavior during impact events.

A significant portion of instruction focuses on applying deceleration factors and perception/reaction time calculations to establish temporal and spatial relationships between colliding vehicles. Key topics include:

• Mathematical concepts review
• Deceleration factors and practical applications
• Speed estimation using kinetic energy, skidmarks, and scuff marks
• Combined speed and velocity calculations
• Vehicle dynamics and motion principles
• Time, distance, and motion equation analysis
• Vehicle damage documentation and linear perimeter measurement
• In-class problem-solving exercises to strengthen computational skills

Intended Audience

This course serves law enforcement officers, private collision investigators, insurance claims adjusters, engineers, legal professionals, safety specialists, military investigators, and professionals working with collision animation and simulation software.

Duration and Intensity

The program runs for 80 hours of instruction, with class sessions held from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Prerequisites

Successful completion of IPTM's At-Scene Traffic Crash/Traffic Homicide Investigation course (or equivalent) is required. Those without strong mathematical and physics foundations are strongly encouraged to complete IPTM's 16-hour Re-Introduction to Math and Physics online course before enrollment. Students should review all formulas and material from their foundational traffic crash course prior to attending.

Materials and Equipment

Required items include a scientific calculator, compass, and work clothes suitable for outdoor activities in varying weather conditions. A camera for documenting field exercises is recommended.

Cost

The tuition fee is $1,195.00 per participant.

Important Note

Florida law enforcement officers should be aware that this course does not qualify for Salary Incentive Credit under FDLE's Advanced Traffic Accident Investigations course designation.