"Nighttime Crash Scene Investigation", 2 hours with Dr. Jeffrey Muttart

Our speaker will be Dr. Muttart, the Director of Research and Training at the Driver Research Institute, LLC, in CT, USA. Learn more at their website: https://driverresearchinstitute.com/

DATE: Thursday, 04 January 2024
TIME: 12 noon - 2 pm Eastern Standard Time
COST: Free for NAPARS member;  $5 for non-members
LOCATION: Worldwide Via Zoom

ACTAR: This event will be submitted to ACTAR for CEU consideration.

Registered attendees will be able to request an  attendance certificate.

"Illuminating the Truth: A Systematic Approach to Nighttime Crash Scene Investigation"

 1. Introduction

     Overview: Importance of accurate nighttime crash scene documentation

     Objective: Teach investigators to avoid biases and ensure fairness in documentation

2. Understanding Nighttime Visibility

     The challenge of nighttime investigations

     Common misconceptions about visibility at night

     Realities of driver perception vs. pedestrian/investigator assumptions

3. The Role of Bias in Crash Investigation

     How prior knowledge can skew perceptions

     Recognizing and mitigating investigator bias

     Case studies: Biased vs. unbiased investigation outcomes

4. Signal Detection Theory in Crash Investigations

     Explaining the basics of signal detection theory

     Application in analyzing crash scenarios

     Contrasting results: With and without signal detection theory application

5. The CAPLETS Approach

     Introduction to CAPLETS: Contrast, Anticipation, Pattern, Lighting, Eccentricity, Time of Exposure, Size

     How each factor influences crash scene visibility

     Applying CAPLETS for comprehensive scene analysis

6. Hands-on Techniques for Scene Documentation

"At-scene approach": Practical steps for on-site investigation

Using a contrast gradient target: Ensuring image accuracy

Effective methods for taking light meter readings

Incorporating artificial light sources: Headlights and streetlights

7. Developing Best Practices

Rules of thumb for nighttime investigation

Checklist for investigators

Avoiding common pitfalls

8. Concluding Thoughts

The importance of objective, systematic investigation

Resources for further learning and practice

9. Workshop Activities

Practical exercises on applying the CAPLETS approach.

Simulated crash scene investigation

Review and feedback session

10. Closing Remarks

Final Q&A Session

Reminder of investigator’s responsibility for unbiased documentation