-First-Forensic-Investigations-blog.jpg)
The Interest group brought together experts and clients to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of collision investigation. It was a day filled with insightful presentations, collaborative exchanges, and a shared commitment to improving road safety and collision investigations.
Thought Provoking Discussions and Expert Insights
For me, one of the most compelling moments of the event came from Meera Naran MBE, who shared her personal journey following the tragic loss of her son in a road collision. Her powerful speech reinforced the importance of getting forensic investigations right. Meera’s call to action was clear: we must work together to stop unnecessary deaths on our roads and ensure that no other families have to endure similar losses.
Thomas Tompkin, TRL’s Head of Service Delivery provided a fascinating look into how data from smart infrastructure can play a pivotal role in investigating collisions. By leveraging real-time insights and predictive analytics, we can move towards a future where road incidents are not just investigated but proactively avoided.
Craig Arnold, our Technical Lead, presented on the hidden truth from in-vehicle data. He explained how there is potentially a vast amount of data, which is often overlooked. There is a need to think more widely about potential sources of crash data. Craig gave examples of how vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems often capture information which can easily be missed.
Iwan Parry, one of our Principal Consultants, took us on a journey into the future, offering his vision of collision investigation in 2030. He explored how emerging technologies, automation, and evolving transport patterns will shape the forensic investigation landscape over the next decade.
Victoria Eyers, another of our Principal Consultants, presented cutting-edge research by TRL’s Forensic Investigation Team on micromobility, with a particular focus on e-scooters. As urban mobility continues to evolve, understanding the risks and safety implications of new transport modes is crucial for forensic investigations and policy-making.
Drawing upon his many years of research and case work in injury causation Stephen Jowitt shared important insights into injury pattern changes. He highlighted how advancements in vehicle design and the use of quality helmets can significantly reduce the severity of injuries. His presentation highlighted the necessity for continuous innovation in vehicle safety measures and protective equipment to mitigate the impact of road collisions.
A Collaborative Effort to Drive Change
Throughout the day, the discussions emphasised a key theme: knowledge-sharing and collaboration are essential if we are to reduce road fatalities and improve outcomes for those affected by road collisions. The event provided a platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas, challenge existing methodologies, and explore new ways to advance forensic investigations.
Looking Ahead
Our first Forensic Investigations Interest Group was a resounding success, setting the stage for ongoing collaboration and future events. We were thrilled to welcome many of our valued clients, all of whom played a crucial role in shaping the discussions and contributing to the future of collision investigation.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a success. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and driving meaningful change in forensic investigations.
To find out more about the work we do across collision investigation and reconstruction, micromobility, injury causation plus much more visit https://expertwitness.trl.co.uk/ or drop us a line at investigations@trl.co.uk
