Start with an accident reconstruction template. We'll use SmartDraw to do this. This is much easier and more accurate than trying to draw the scene by hand. Plus, when you're finished, you'll have a presentation-quality graphic.
Begin by selecting from one of dozens of templates that cover multiple-lane roads, intersections, highways, freeways, parking lots, and many other settings. Here are just a few of the options available:
In addition to using a template, you can also create your own custom accident reconstruction, as shown in this example. If you want to follow along but don't have a copy of SmartDraw, you may try it now, at no cost.
This accident intersection features four north-south lanes and two east-west lanes of traffic. Create this by clicking and stamping two T-Intersection symbols onto a blank page.
SmartDraw includes hundreds of symbols for everything you need in your accident reconstruction: cars, trucks, and vehicles of all kinds; traffic signs and road markings, roadway objects, and more. Simply select the symbols you need from the SmartPanel, and stamp them onto your diagram.
Using the Line tool in the upper toolbar and the Roads and Intersections area in the SmartPanel, we'll add lane markings.
This intersection features signals at each corner and an overhead traffic light at the center. There was a temporary construction zone at the time of the incident, so these symbols are added next. We'll also add a compass and our diagram information box from the SmartPanel.
You'll want to include only the information that is important to the case. Don't add extraneous items, as they will distract from the visual facts being presented.
Next, add the vehicles involved. Show their course of travel and denote the point of the collision. Be sure to label each vehicle.
The final step is to add a legend and a brief description of the accident.
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