WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FORENSIC ENGINEERING

Forensic Engineering is the application of engineering principles and science used in the investigation of materials, products, structures, or components that fail to function as intended. When a failure occurs in a property or structure, the result can mean personal injury or severe damage. A forensic engineer locates the causes of failure.

Forensic engineering is a form of reverse engineering to unravel the root cause. The conclusions of forensic engineering investigations can be addressed to manufacturers, insurance companies, and/or legal firms. In the event of damage to property, loss of revenue, personal loss, or fatality, forensic evidence may be submitted to the court of law, the arbitral tribunal, or other forums, as part of an investigator’s testimony.

Investigations are essential to prevent a failure from reoccurring. Cases involving financial claims rely on forensic engineering to determine the facts. Both the claimants (plaintiffs) and defendants rely on accurate evidence to show a sequence of events and ascertain liability.

Here are a few common cases where forensic engineers may be called to evaluate an accident:

-A bridge collapses. This was the case on March 15, 2018, when a 175-foot-long pedestrian bridge at Florida International University collapsed.
-A concert stage caves in.
-A building catches fire due to an electrical problem.

Who would need a forensic engineer after an accident or malfunction?

• Construction Companies
• Manufacturers
• General Inspectors
• Insurance Providers
• Government Investigators
• Project Consultants
• Lawyers and Legal firms

Looking for a forensic engineer in South Florida? We can help!
G. Batista E&C assists clients with preparing and analyzing construction claims.
Forensic Engineering – Expert Witness Services
Call us and get a quote (954) 434-2053.

What is the role of a forensic engineer?

The role of the engineer can be divided into three distinct phases:

Evidence Collection
Gathering background information about the incident
Preservation of the scene where the damage occurred
Onsite evaluation
Directing the evidence gathered

Failure Analysis
Initial assessment of the damage and appraisal
Investigation planning
Bringing together an investigation team
Determining the scope of the investigation
Avoiding preconceived bias and staying objective throughout

Client Reporting
Providing assessment and the suspected cause of failure
Serving as an expert witness when necessary

Looking for a forensic engineer in South Florida? We can help!
G. Batista E&C assists clients with preparing and analyzing construction claims.
Forensic Engineering – Expert Witness Services
Call us and get a quote (954) 434-2053.

Why are forensic examinations important?

Forensic audits are a vital part of the settlement process of civil and criminal cases, insurance claims, commercial disputes, and more. Furthermore, these extensive and in-depth investigations help to identify challenges and conclusions which enable engineers and manufacturers/builders to prevent similar failures in the future. Here are a few examples of where forensic examinations are important.

Develop/improve standards for the execution of failure investigations
Assist claims adjusters and assessors to decide compensation
Develop the processes for minimizing manufacturing/building imperfections
Provide expert evidence that allows the court to hold people/companies accountable
Share technical details about failures and develop a knowledge base

What are the types of forensic engineers?

There are generally 2 types of forensic engineer roles.

Design/Management Engineer
This is an engineer that provides quick insight within their specific area of expertise. They should already be very knowledgeable about the industry best practices and otherwise. This role generally requires minimal research as they are providing their expert knowledge on an area they are already very familiar with.

Full-time Forensic Engineer
This is when an engineer provides a systematic plan for a forensic investigation to help find the root cause of the failure. They can manage the investigation from start to finish and this may include collecting data, bringing in a team, and carefully assessing and appraising the damage.