TRL provides expert teams of scientists and consultants across a broad spectrum of technical specialisms in incident investigation and reconstruction.  They are backed-up by a range of advanced examination techniques, sophisticated technology and computer modelling facilities, so that evidence can be gathered for comprehensive analysis and database development.

We have built up an unparalleled level of experience in this field which means that we are expert in determining the critical factors for a given incident and can then advise on how the lessons learnt can be fed back into policy and system improvement so that risks can be better managed for the future.

We provide our clients with specialist capabilities covering;

Accident data and databases

TRL holds some of the most extensive and detailed accident databases in the world covering accident causations factors, vehicle deformation and resultant injuries.  Through the application of complex analyses to these datasets we can inform local and national government decision-making on where best to apply resources from a sound evidential base.

Attending Incident Scenes & Rapid Response

TRL is set to respond rapidly and effectively to incidents, securing evidence and ensuring specific site data is captured for examination.  Our rapid response team has been established to provide advice and expertise for major transport related incidents.  This service includes the deployment of skilled investigators to the scene of incidents throughout the UK and overseas.

Our incident response team has the back-up of a dedicated laser scanning capabilities specialising in providing police and investigation agencies with incident recording and scene data preservation on a 24 hour call-out basis.

Video & CCTV Analysis

TRL has experts who analyse CCTV and video footage to identify vehicles and provide speed assessments for vehicles involved in serious crimes or incidents.  Projects have included identifying vehicles caught from afar on CCTV to close analysis of traffic behaviour and understanding of accidents in roadworks.

Forensic Examinations

We assist Police Forces across the UK in undertaking forensic examinations of vehicles and their component to investigate why accidents happen down to the minute detail.  Projects include forensic investigation of wreckage from major train crashes or component examination of vehicles involved in serious road accidents.

3D Laser Scanning and Modelling

State-of-the-art laser scanning equipment, computer modelling and reconstruction technologies are applied by TRL to provide a new perspective in preserving and analysing complex sites and incident scenes.  TRL's 3D laser imaging system is a combined hardware and software package specifically designed for the aquisition of three dimensional areas.  Data collected by a rotating scanning laser is downloaded in real-time to a laptop computer where a three dimensional scene can be instantly viewed.  The system scans a volume of space defined by an operator, recording X, Y and Z coordinates representing the surfaces of features and objects in the field of the scan.

Large scale and complex incident or crash scenes can be measured and preserved in great detail, providing a key source of information for investigators.  Using up-to-the minute technologies such as laser scanning and subsequent 3D modelling for road and rail incidents, means that detailed "at-the-scene" data can be captured quickly for later analysis in greater detail.  This enables our knowledge on accident causation factors to be greatly enhanced.

Full-scale Reconstruction

We are able to reconstruct accidents on our private test track and road network.  This enables us to reconstruct accidents in safe, controlled environments.  Our test track and road network is a unique asset to TRL, used not only for reconstruction it offers our clients an unrivalled location to test out the latest developments in vehicles, environments and systems. 

Expert Witness Services

TRL staff regularly provide sensible expert witness support in the transport field that is independent, impartial and experienced.  Our specialists are particularly adept at establishing the facts of a particular case and then presenting them effectively so that there is no misunderstanding of their opinion and findings.  For example, where required, we use innovative computer modelling linked to advanced graphical analysis techniques and computer generated incident visualisation facilities to show a clear chain of events that have led to a particular incident.  These presentations of evidence and expert witness opinion have been used in the courtroom, at national inquiries and many other formal investigation settings.

This high level of expertise is called upon by insurers, global corporations and transport operators, as well as law firms, government investigators, police and other law enforcement agencies.  All have chosen to rely upon TRL to provide them with a sound and independent view of what has happened and, just as importantly, to assist in risk planning so similar incidents are minimised and managed more effectively in the future.

Why work with us?

Our work is wide and varied and is applied to an equally diverse range of clients.  Our experts are trained to use their skills across a broad range of transport issues, so that we meet the needs of business, government and transport authorities around the world.

Our multi-disciplinary approach, linked to our independence and impartiality, means that we have established an organisation that is building its reputation on the excellence of our people.  At TRL we work hard to ensure that we are providing our clients with a level of reassurance and objective support that is unrivalled in the fields of transport operations, risk management and expert incident investigation.

TRL has seen rapid growth in the range of services that it offers to a diverse set of clients.  However, our commitment to fast, flexible, independent and expert response remains undiminished.  For further information please contact safety@trl.co.uk