Low Speed Collision - Experts Reconstruct Crash to Determine Inju...
(Cases - 01/19/12)

Robson Forensic was retained to determine if the forces generated in a two car, same direction crash were sufficient to cause injuries. The Plaintiff was driving slowly, approaching a stoplight, when the Defendant changed lanes and collided with the Plaintiff’s right front fender. Crash Reconstruction Expert, Steven J. Becker, reconstructed the crash to determine the speed and duration of the collision and calculated the change in velocity. Biomechanical Engineering Expert, Jamie R. Williams, Ph.D., then evaluated Plaintiff medical records and using Becker’s calculations, determined that the forces generated by the collision were insufficient to cause the Plaintiff’s injuries.

Vehicle Repair – Expert Investigates Engine Failure to Determine ...
(Cases - 01/19/12)

Robson Forensic was retained to determine if a Dodge engine failure was the result of an improper repair. The engine of a 2002 Dodge Intrepid with approximately 100,000 miles seized during highway driving only a few days after an Auto Shop had changed the oil. Opposing experts determined that the failure was caused by an improper repair. Vehicle Engineering Expert, Steven J. Becker, disassembled the engine to inspect the damage and the oil. He concluded that the engine failed as a result of a broken connecting rod, which subsequently broke the oil pan, causing the oil loss that seized the engine.

Inattentive Driving – Expert Investigates Pedestrian Strike in Cr...
(Cases - 01/19/12)

A woman and her daughter were caught in the crosswalk of a busy intersection when the traffic light changed. The Defendant accelerated from the opposite side of the intersection and impacted the Plaintiff and her daughter. Robson Forensic was retained to determine if the Defendant’s driving was improper in a manner that caused the collision. Crash Reconstruction Expert, Steven J. Becker, reconstructed the collision to determine the speed of the Defendant’s truck and demonstrated how the Defendant was driving inattentively and caused the collision.

Mall Security - Expert Investigates Assault in Mall Parking Lot
(Cases - 01/19/12)

A teen was assaulted in a mall parking lot after leaving a late night movie with friends, and sustained head and face injuries. As the boys were crossing the mall parking lot, they were assaulted by men that exited from a van. Premises security expert, Donald J. Decker, CPP, CPM, was retained to determine if the shopping mall, the contracted security vendor, and the movie theater violated the standard of care for security at a shopping mall and created a dangerous condition that caused this incident.

Strap Failure - Expert Investigates Product Liability Claim
(Cases - 01/13/12)

During a surfing trip a strap that was holding surfboards to the roof of a vehicle broke and a plaintiff was injured when the strap’s buckle struck him in the head. Plaintiff’s expert claimed that the strap was defective because the buckle was metal. He proposed a safer alternative design consisting of lighter, plastic buckles, and stated that this proposed design would have prevented the injuries.

Icy Walkway - Expert Investigates use of Cat Litter to Treat Wint...
(Cases - 01/04/12)

A patron at a strip mall slipped and fell during winter weather while crossing from the sidewalk to the parking lot. Prior to his fall, ice had formed in the parking lot and sidewalk. After the property owner failed to address the ice, the manager of one of the stores spread cat litter in the parking lot to provide safe footing. After the fall, many parties were sued including the cat litter manufacturer with claims that cat litter is an unreasonably dangerous material to place on icy walkways and that wet cat litter in the parking lot caused the fall. Robson Forensic was hired to evaluate the validity of those claims.

Concert Security - Expert Investigates Actions of Security Person...
(Cases - 01/04/12)

A young woman attending a rock concert sustained injuries when she was struck in the head and neck by another concert patron who had been thrown from the stage by the musician’s security. Security for this event was contracted by the concert venue through a third party vendor. Additionally, the musician had his own security personnel. Robson Forensic security expert, Donald J. Decker, CPP, CPM, was retained to determine if the concert venue provided reasonable security for the event, and if the actions of the performer and his security personnel caused this incident.

Retail Security - Expert Investigates Shooting at National Retail...
(Cases - 01/04/12)

A store manager at a national retail chain was shot three times by the estranged boyfriend of the store’s sales associate. The sales associate had a history of domestic violence incidents involving her boyfriend. The retailer utilized security cameras in the parking lot and retail area of the property. Also, they contracted with a third party security vendor to provide unarmed, uniformed security guards seven days a week. Robson Forensic premises security expert, Donald J. Decker, CPP, CPM, was retained to determine if the retailer provided reasonable security at the time of the incident.

Residential Security - Expert Investigates Assault in Housing Pro...
(Cases - 01/04/12)

A young woman was sexually assaulted while walking up the stairway of her apartment building. Robson Forensic premises security expert, Donald J. Decker, CPP, CPM, was retained to determine if the actions of the Housing Authority caused this incident.

Premises Security - Expert Investigates Assault at Medical Arts B...
(Cases - 01/04/12)

A young woman was physically assaulted while standing outside of a medical arts building. She claimed that the assault was a result of failures on part of the property management company to provide adequate security, including a Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system and patrolling security personnel. Robson Forensic premises security expert, Donald J. Decker, CPP, CPM, was retained to determine if the property management company provided adequate security.

Roadway Defect Causes Bicycle Collision
(Cases - 12/30/11)

A cyclist on a city street encountered a power company grate in the street, his front tire went into a gap in the grate, he crashed and was injured.

We inspected the grate and showed that ordinary bicycle tires could readily be trapped by the gap, that the gap was in a normal bicycle travel path and that cyclist activity was common in the area. We also showed that gaps such as this have been known for a long time to be dangerous to cyclists, and that the gap made the grate dangerous in a manner that was a cause of the cyclist's crash and injuries.

This event was typical of other bicycle collisions. The case resolved through settlement.

Construction Site Fall - Experts Reconstruct Construction Injury
(Cases - 12/20/11)

A construction worker sustained multiple injuries resulting from a work site fall. The worker was found lying on the second story floor of a three story building. One of the issues in dispute regarded the location from where the worker fell. Robson Forensic was retained to determine if the construction worker’s injuries were consistent with him falling through the uncovered framed skylight on the roof and to address issues regarding construction site management standards of care.

Robson Forensic Sponsors Exhibit at North Museum
(Articles - 12/19/11)

Robson Forensic is sponsoring a CSI inspired exhibit at the North Museum of Natural History & Science in Lancaster, PA. The exhibit exposes children to the skills forensics experts use every day, including data keeping and the scientific method.

Dram Shop Defense - Expert Investigates Alcohol Service to Minor
(Cases - 12/06/11)

A mother was killed when a drunk driver crashed into her vehicle. The crash was caused by a minor who had been served alcohol earlier in the evening at a local night club. Robson Forensic Dram Shop/Bar Operations expert, Elizabeth Trendowski, was retained to determine if the nightclub followed industry standard of care guidelines when they granted the minor entry into their establishment.

Design for Safe Walking
(Speaking Engagements - 11/30/11)

The architectural group at Robson Forensic collaborated with the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) to provide an interactive presentation on using best demonstrated design practices to improve pedestrian safety. The scope of the discussion includes accommodating pedestrian walking requirements, aiding in the identification of hazards, preventing degradation by transient conditions, and maintaining the integrity of built environments over time.

View Presentation on ASSE Website

Walking your Property to Prevent Falls
(Articles - 11/15/11)

Falls are the most common and costly accident type for many commercial businesses. In the following article, published in the April 2011 Newsletter for HospitalityLawyer.com, the Premises Safety group at Robson Forensic provides a narrative regarding some of the most common causes of slip, trip, and fall injuries at hotels and retail establishments. The article also provides valuable precautions that should be taken to reduce the likelihood of fall injuries on stairs and walkways.

PennDOT Settles Rural Intersection Collision Case for $200K
(Cases - 11/15/11)

A two-vehicle, intersection collision occurred at a rural intersection. Robson Forensic determined corner sight distance was grossly substandard and a cause of the collision.

Gold Medal Awarded by AIA Florida
(Articles - 11/14/11)

Miguel Rodriguez was recently awarded the Gold Medal, the highest honor that AIA Florida presents its members. The Gold Medal is awarded to an AIA member who, through his/her dedication and service, advance the profession by taking a leadership position on practice issues, broad-based advocacy and meaningful professional development.

Tire Retread – Expert Investigates Fatal Truck Crash
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 10/22/11)

A 31-year-old truck driver was driving a front discharge concrete mixing truck when the front right tire blew out. The vehicle veered off the road and hit a shallow embankment. Upon impact, the drum of the concrete mixer broke into the cabin of the vehicle and crushed the driver. Emergency personnel found the driver dead.

Gary Derian, P.E. was retained to investigate the crash and determine if the failed tire was negligently retreaded and installed by the local service station.

This matter settled for $3,000,000.

Furnace Maintenence - Expert Investigates Workplace Burn: $1.5 Mi...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 10/21/11)

A 57-year-old diabetic journeyman pipefitter, was hired to work on the overhaul of an industrial furnace. On the day of his injury, the victim worked approximately 10 hours, spending the better part of the day standing on and off the throat of the furnace in order to replace burners in the refiner. The inside temperature in the throat that day was raised to approximately 2000 degrees. When he went home after work and removed his work boots, he discovered that the soles of his feet had been seriously burned. Industrial Hygienist, Ron Schaible, was retained to determine if the manufacturer created a dangerous condition that contributed to the plaintiff’s injuries.

Motorcycle Performance - Expert, Erin Higinbotham, Sets Speed Rec...
(Videos - 10/21/11)

Video features Motorcycle Expert, Erin Higinbotham, riding his 450 cc project bike at Maxton, NC in September 2011. This motorcycle features a highly modified engine that began as a 600 cc R6 engine.

Aggravated Vehicular Homicide – Expert Reconstruction Demonstrate...
(Cases - 10/20/11)

The driver of a Chevrolet Camaro lost control of his vehicle around a curve, skidded into the oncoming traffic lane, and was hit broadside by a Ford Escort. The front seat passenger in the Camaro was killed. Accident reconstruction by the State Police estimated the Camaro’s speed at 47 mph when it lost control; based on these findings the driver was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide. Robson Forensic was retained to reconstruct the crash and determine if the driver of the Camaro acted improperly in a manner that caused the death of the front seat passenger.

Pedestrian Strike - Experts Investigate Fatal Pedestrian-Vehicle ...
(Cases - 10/19/11)

A pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle while attempting to cross midblock on a four-lane, urban roadway. The incident occurred at night as the victim was attempting to visit a nightclub on the southbound side of the roadway. The victim had parked her vehicle at an unrelated business on the northbound side of the roadway because the nightclub’s parking lot was in a state of disrepair. Street lights ran along the roadway. However, the street light in front of the club’s entrance was Out. Robson Forensic was retained to reconstruct the incident and determine the causes of the collision.

Conveyor Belt - Expert Investigates Conveyor Belt Injury
(Cases - 10/18/11)

A five year old boy was injured by a carousel conveyor in a retail store. He was at the store with his parents when he placed one of his toys on top of a moving conveyor display. His toy fell from the moving conveyor to the floor. The boy bent down to pick up the toy and as he stood up, he raised his hand and it become entrapped and injured within the unguarded moving parts of the conveyor.

Chair Failure - Experts Investigates Office Chair Failure
(Cases - 10/18/11)

A firefighter sustained back injuries when the office chair he was sitting on failed, causing him to fall backwards onto the ground. Robson Forensic experts in product liability and metallurgy were retained to determine the causes of the incident.

Bicycle Failure - Experts Investigate Bicycle Component Failure
(Cases - 10/18/11)

A bicycle rider was catastrophically injured when he crashed a composite-framed, road bicycle. After the crash, the front fork (with wheel) and the right crankarm (with pedal) were found detached from the bicycle. The roadway in the area of the crash was unremarkable and not consistent with causing the crash. Robson Forensic was retained to determine if the bicycle was defective in a manner that caused the crash.

Vehicular Homicide - Expert Reconstructs SUV-Pedestrian Collision
(Cases - 10/17/11)

A mother was struck and killed by an approaching SUV while jogging with her two children in a stroller. The driver of the SUV may or may not have failed to stop at a Stop sign, causing the collision. Evidence of marijuana was found in the SUV. The driver of the SUV faced charges of vehicular homicide and vehicular homicide while under the influence. Robson Forensic vehicle engineering expert, Tom Lacek, P.E., was retained to reconstruct the crash to determine the driver’s impact speed and the victim’s pre-impact location when the driver began to react to the impending collision.

Door Closer - Expert Investigates Injury at Retailer
(Cases - 10/17/11)

A woman was struck by a door while entering a national retail chain store. The entrance consisted of a pair of tall, heavy doors with pivot hinges and door closers. The door slammed into the woman before she had completely passed through the entrance and knocked her into a nearby merchandise display. She fell and sustained serious injuries, including broken bones. Robson Forensic architect/premises safety expert, William E. J. Martin, AIA, NCARB, was retained to determine if improper maintenance of the entrance caused the door to operate outside of established industry standards and caused the victim’s injuries.

Load Securement - Expert Investigates Pharmaceutical Cargo Loss
(Our Work - 10/17/11)

Two tanks of pre-market pediatric vaccine toppled over and were destroyed while being transferred from a production facility in Canada to a testing facility in the United States. The vaccine was transported by a third party trucking company that specializes in refrigerated transportation of goods for the pharmaceutical industry. The loss was valued at approximately $750,000 US. Robson Forensic trucking expert, Brooks Rugemer, was retained to evaluate the cargo pick-up and securement procedures of the trucking company to determine if their actions were a cause of the loss.

Legionnnaires Disease - Expert Investigates Outbreak at Hotel Hot...
(Cases - 10/12/11)

A man attending his high school reunion held at a national hotel chain in South Carolina was exposed to Legionella bacteria and contracted Legionnaire’s disease. Robson Forensic aquatics safety expert, Maria Bella, AFOIT, CPOI, LGI, was retained to determine if the operation of the hotel hot tub violated the standard of care and was dangerous in a manner that caused the transmission of Legionella bacteria.

Diving Board Injury - Expert Investigates Injury at Amusement Park
(Cases - 10/12/11)

A patron at a local amusement park was injured when he dove from an elevated board into a swimming pool and struck the pool bottom with his face. He sustained an abrasion to his forehead and lacerations to his nose and the area above his upper lip. The plaintiff’s expert claimed that the actions of the local amusement park were unreasonable and caused this injury. Robson Forensic aquatics safety expert, Maria Bella, AFOIT, CPOI, LGI, was retained to determine if the amusement park violated standards of care for aquatic facilities in a manner that caused the diver’s injury.

Alcohol Toxicology - Experts Investigate Toxicology & Dram Shop I...
(Cases - 10/11/11)

A pedestrian sustained serious injuries when he was struck by an intoxicated driver. A blood specimen obtained from the driver approximately 30 minutes after the crash revealed a serum alcohol concentration of 0.176 g/dl. Robson Forensic experts in Toxicology and Liquor Liability were retained to determine: 1) the dose of alcohol consumed in the hours prior to the crash 2) if the driver’s alcohol concentration was consistent with the likelihood that she displayed visible signs of intoxication while patronizing the local social club 3) if the actions/inactions of the social club were reckless and breached the industry standard of care for the service of alcohol and contributed to the pedestrian’s injuries.

CCTV Security
(Articles - 10/04/11)

CCTV provides surveillance that can allow the operator to detect criminal activities and record the camera footage. CCTV surveillance loses its effectiveness without a meaningful response to a situation. Without a meaningful response, CCTV video becomes an aid in the investigation of a criminal act, not an effective deterrent.

Dram Shop Expert’s Opinion Supports $2.3 Million Settlement
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 10/04/11)

Three teens injured in a drunken-driving accident settled their auto-negligence and dram shop claims for a combined $2.3 million.

Tilt-Wall Braces - Expert Article on Helical Ground Anchors
(Articles - 10/03/11)

Structural Engineer, Mark Duckett, PE, authored the attached article regarding the use of Helical Ground Anchors for "Anchoring" Tilt-Wall Braces in the Summer 2010 edition of the Building Officials Association of Florida (BOAF) newsletter.

Motorcycle - Automobile Collision - Expert Opinion Supports Defen...
(Cases - 09/22/11)

A motorcycle collided with the rear of an automobile near an intersection on a multi-lane roadway. The plaintiff motorcyclist alleged that the defendant automobile driver turned right out of the intersection and directly into the right lane that the motorcyclist was traveling in. The automobile driver said that she pulled into the right lane when it was clear of traffic, but other traffic was in the left lane approaching the intersection. Eyewitness testimony was that the motorcyclist possibly changed lanes at the intersection and then collided with the rear of the automobile.

General Average - Expert Investigates Marine Engine Failure
(Cases - 09/21/11)

A 173 meter General Cargo vessel broke down while transiting Pentland Firth on a voyage from St. Petersburg, Russia to Houston, Texas. The breakdown was caused by a failure of the turbocharger. Robson Forensic marine engineering expert, Arthur Faherty, was retained to determine the likely cause of the turbocharger failure and if the actions/inactions of the shipping company were a factor in the casualty.

CSST - Experts Investigate Fire in Upscale Home
(Cases - 09/07/11)

A fire broke out in a recently constructed upscale home during a heavy thunderstorm. Robson Forensic fire investigators were retained to investigate the fire and determine the origin and cause. Our investigator concluded that the origin of the fire was under the first floor where a hole was discovered in the flexible gas tubing. He determined that the hole had been created by a lightning strike. Based on these findings, additional Robson experts were engaged to determine if the work performed by the electrical contractor during the home’s construction was a cause of the hole in the gas tubing.

Machine Interlock – Expert Opinion Integral in $510,000 Settlement
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 08/26/11)

A butcher was seriously injured at work. The victim was standing between filling and canning machines, loading stacks of lids, when his supervisor asked him to hand over a tool; when the butcher reached over and between the two machines his jacket got caught on the rotating power take-off shaft, resulting in multiple fractures to his right arm.

Robson Forensic expert, Bart Eckhardt, P.E., opined that the machine manufacturer failed to provide an interlock for the power take-off shaft guard and that the manufacturer failed to ensure the power take-off shaft guard was with the machine when the equipment was resold to the plaintiff’s employer. The absence of a shaft guard exposed the plaintiff to an unreasonable hazard and was a cause of his injury.

The case settled for $510,000 in mediation.

Highway Construction – Expert Investigates Collision with Constru...
(Cases - 08/25/11)

A driver was injured when her car collided with a construction vehicle on a state highway. The construction vehicle exited a work zone from a median crossover between the northbound and southbound travel lanes and entered directly into the passing lane in the southbound direction. The injured driver crashed into the back of the construction vehicle. Robson Forensic experts were retained to determine the cause(s) of the incident.

This case settled favorably for our client before trial.

Construction Detour - Expert Investigates Fatal Work Zone Collision
(Cases - 08/17/11)

This bicycle/motor vehicle construction work zone collision resulted in the fatality of the bicycle driver. Liability was established against both the construction contractor and the design engineering firm.

We determined that the collision occurred when the bicycle driver, while riding on a long-established pedestrian/bike path adjacent to a 4-lane thoroughfare, and upon entering the construction work zone, traveled into the oncoming motor vehicle travel lane and was struck by an automobile.

Construction Signage - Expert Investigates Single-Vehicle Crash i...
(Cases - 08/15/11)

This single-vehicle construction work zone collision resulted in serious injury to a passenger. Liability was established against both the construction contractor and the construction inspection firm.

We determined that: the collision occurred due to the car traveling at high speed and the road surface changing from paved to dirt/gravel as a result of construction activity; the crash occurred within a long-term construction work site; the only construction sign encountered by the driver in his approach to the work site was a Road Work Ahead sign; the street where the work was underway was used as a “cut through” by non-local traffic; the persistent high-speed non-local traffic through the construction site was dangerous to both the construction workers and the traffic; the contractor and the construction inspection firm were aware of, or should have been aware of, the speeding through-traffic prior to the collision, but made no change to the traffic control plan. Based on the facts and in accordance with standards for work zone traffic control, our expert opined that the contractor and the construction inspection firm: should have taken effective steps to detour the non-local traffic; and that the failure of the contractor and the construction inspection firm to employ reasonable and established measures to effectively close the street under construction to through traffic was improper and a substantial cause of the collision and resulting injury. The case settled during mediation.

Waterslide – Expert Investigates Collision in Waterslide Run-Out
(Cases - 08/06/11)

A physician broke his arm while attempting to exit the run-out at the end of a waterslide. After the victim completed his descent of the slide, he rose to his feet and was struck by the following rider; his legs were knocked out from under him and he fell upon the edge of the waterslide, fracturing his humerus. Robson Forensic aquatic safety expert, Maria Bella, AFOIT, CPOI, LGI, was retained to determine if the waterpark operated the subject waterslide in a manner that caused this incident.

Architectural Professional Liability - Expert Opines on Standards...
(Cases - 08/05/11)

A patron at a nightclub climbed up on top of a 3 foot high speaker box platform and danced off the edge. Many people were sued. The club was a tenant at a Trade Center Development. We were engaged after it was claimed that the developer's architect, who reviewed the tenant drawings for the club, should have required guard rails around the top of the platform.

Scald - Biomechanics Expert Investigates Ability of Users to Avoi...
(Cases - 08/05/11)

A security guard was badly scalded by hot water from an outdoor hose bibb. She had been patrolling a public housing complex when she saw water running and tried to shut off the valve. As soon as the hot water hit her skin, she was scalded. We measured the water temperature at over 185 degrees F. Tracing the lines back through the system showed ,how in the course of repairs, maintenance workers had piped the bibb from a tap into the nearby hot water piping instead of the cold.

Engineering Professional Liability - Expert Investigates Damage t...
(Cases - 08/05/11)

While construction was being performed on an adjacent site, the owner of an 80,000 square foot, two story office building complained repeatedly of vibrations in his building. After the construction was over he later claimed to have just discovered significant damage to his five year old building that could only have been caused by the vibrations. We reviewed the claimed damage, the original construction drawings for the owner’s building and the history of the adjacent construction.

Architectural & HVAC Professional Liability - Expert Investigates...
(Cases - 08/05/11)

A couple hired a construction contractor and his newly-licensed architect son to design and build a high-end modern house. The design included large expanses of glass wall panels. The massive heating system (four air handlers and a boiler) was provided as a design/build effort by an HVAC subcontractor. Even so, during a relatively mild heating season the owners were unable to maintain comfort near the windows. In fact, so much water ran off the inside of the glass that it saturated adjacent surfaces and caused mold.

Fatal Tractor-Trailer Accident Results in $3.5 Million Verdict
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 08/01/11)

Brooks Rugemer - Commercial Trucking Specialist

A federal jury awarded nearly $3.5 million to the widow of a 26-year-old man who was killed instantly when the tractor-trailer he was repairing lurched forward because the driver allegedly pressed the ignition button while it was still in gear.

Trailer Unloading - Expert Investigates Construction Site Injury
(Cases - 07/27/11)

A construction worker was knocked off a trailer and injured when he was assisting a co-worker unloading pipe from a flat bed trailer.

The opposing expert opined that a dangerous condition existed and that the injured worker was intentionally exposed to that condition. After reviewing depositions, appropriate standards and regulations, and a report by the opposing expert, our expert was able to show that the incident was caused by an inadvertent and unintentional action of a backhoe operator that occurred without any notice. There was no dangerous condition to which the worker was exposed. Our expert was able to show the incident was caused by the backhoe operator failing to stop the hoisting action when the slack had been removed from the load sling. Instead of just removing the slack, the load line was over-tensioned and the load was lifted prematurely before the worker could move out of the path of the load. The unexpected and premature load movement knocked the worker off the truck bed and injured him.

The case resolved favorably. The injured worker obtained a small settlement and the contractor avoided being saddled with an intentional tort action. The settlement was based upon the report prepared by our expert and his strong deposition.

Demolition Injury - Expert Investigates Fall through Concrete Deck
(Cases - 07/26/11)

A construction worker was injured when he fell through a weakened portion of concrete deck that had been partially demolished via a piece of hydro-demolition equipment.

After reviewing depositions, photographs, appropriate standards and regulations, and a report by an engineering consultant, our expert was able to show the general contractor and the prime subcontractor both failed to exercise reasonable care for the work being performed, specifically that the hydro-demolition subcontractor changed nozzle settings on the equipment. The changed settings caused excessive amounts of concrete to be removed and permitted the demolition work to be performed quicker. The change in nozzle setting by the subcontractor and the failure of the general contractor to control its subcontractor resulted in the dangerous conditions that caused the worker’s incident and injuries.

The case resolved favorably for the injured worker with both the general contractor and demolition subcontractor settling based on the report prepared by our expert.

Trailer Collapse - Expert Tests Structure with Cardboard Analog
(Cases - 07/21/11)

Throughout her career in design and development, Vehicle Engineer Erin Shipp, P.E. has used simple cardboard analogs to understand structures and how they fail. When she was retained for a case involving a Semi-Trailer that collapsed under the load of a forklift, she used a cardboard analog to simulate the failure.

Heavy Rigging - Expert Engineered and Managed a Complex Rigging O...
(Our Work - 07/13/11)

Brent Leisenring engineered and managed a complex heavy rigging operation in which a 120 foot long, 600,000 pound reactor vessel had to be moved from a barge, two miles into and through an operating oil refinery, picked up and rotated into a vertical position and set, within 1/8 of an inch accuracy, onto 12 anchor bolts on a concrete foundation pad-without the use of a crane to handle the vessel in the refinery.

Mercury Poisoning - Expert Investigates Exposure at Manufacturing...
(Our Work - 07/05/11)

Workers in a fluorescent lighting manufacturing facility were exposed to mercury from recycling operations and were injured. Numerous plaintiffs were diagnosed with mercury poisoning. Robson Forensic expert, Ron Schaible, was retained by plaintiffs’ counsel to investigate this incident.

Door Hardware - Expert Investigates Hand Entrapment
(Our Work - 07/01/11)

A man was exiting his apartment when his hand became entrapped in the security hardware on the interior door, and his hand was severely injured. His hand was caught between the interlocking pieces of a latch guard, one mounted on the door and the other on the frame.

A Robson Forensic architect was retained to investigate the configuration of the hardware and determine if it was dangerous and met the standard of care for safe door hardware configuration.

Glass Sliding Door - Expert Investigates Laceration
(Our Work - 07/01/11)

A young girl was visiting the apartment of her uncle and cousins when she leaned against the glass of a sliding door that led to the exterior patio. The glass broke into large shards that fell onto her. She was severely lacerated. The glass was original to the door, which was installed prior to the enactment of safety glazing requirements in building and property maintenance codes.

A Robson Forensic architect was retained to determine the requirements for glazing in the subject door, and if the apartment complex owner’s actions were reasonable in not replacing or protecting the glass.

Parking Lot Design - Expert Investigates Pedestrian Death
(Our Work - 07/01/11)

A woman was walking toward a busy donut shop in a parking lot, when she was struck and killed by a vehicle driven by a person who had visited the same location every day for more than a year and was very familiar with the layout of the parking lot.

A Robson Forensic architect investigated the design and maintenance of the lot and determined that the parking lot lacked reasonable pedestrian and vehicle controls. The parking lot created dangerous traffic flows that created conflicts of vehicles with pedestrians.

Powered Door - Expert Investigates Pedestrian Knockdown
(Our Work - 07/01/11)

A woman was entering a medical office building when she was knocked down by the automatic sliding door at the main entrance to the building. The door unexpectedly closed even though she was in the path of its detector eyes. A Robson Forensic architect was retained to determine if the maintenance of the door caused the door to malfunction and injure the woman as she attempted to enter.

Restaurant Entrance - Expert Investigates Pedestrian Fall
(Our Work - 07/01/11)

A woman was exiting a restaurant under a small canopy above the doors when she unexpectedly stepped across a single riser in the raised ‘porch’. The tile pavement continued across the step and into the restaurant, and she didn’t see the change in elevation as she was walking toward her parked car. The configuration of the entrance had been recently changed, and the redesign involved the services of an architect.

A Robson Forensic architect was retained to determine if the restaurant, who maintained the entrance, and the architect, who oversaw construction of the new entrance, created a dangerous condition that caused the woman’s injuries.

Toxicology Expert Testifies as to BAC of Driver – Jury Awards $550G
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 06/28/11)

Toxicologist, Michael McCabe, testified that the driver of a vehicle had a .24 blood alcohol level after a rear-end crash that severely injured the driver of the other vehicle -- three times the legal .08 blood alcohol threshold for driving while intoxicated in New York State.

A jury awarded $550,000 to the victim and placed nearly half the blame on the nightclub that served alcohol to the driver.

Dave & Buster’s Agrees to $1.5 Million Settlement in DUI Case
(Our Work - 05/16/11)

A national restaurant chain has agreed to pay $1.5 million to the family of a 20-year-old Riverside man who was killed in a 2008 drunken-driving accident, according to court records.

The settlement came just as lawyers for Dave & Buster’s and the family of the plaintiff were getting ready to pick a jury during the initial phases of a trial in state Superior Court.

The plaintiff was killed in September 2008 while riding his bicycle after defendant, 25, of Riverside, struck him during a late-night accident.

Fatal, Hit-Pedestrian, Night Time Collision
(Our Work - 05/10/11)

This is a fatal, hit-pedestrian, night time collision. The pedestrian walked in front of a SUV that pulled into the middle lane to make a left turn and then out in front of a car passing the turning SUV. We reconstructed the events of the collision and determined that the pedestrian walked out in front of the driver within the driver’s reasonable perception reaction time. The driver did not have enough time or distance to avoid collision. The cause of this collision was the pedestrian walking out in front of the driver. The driver’s actions were not improper in a manner that was a cause of the crash. The case settled at mediation.

Dram Shop Claim Overcomes 7-Figure Setoff for Settlement
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 05/10/11)

Alcohol liability case against a restaurant stemming from an automobile collision. Plaintiff claimed that the collision occurred because of intoxicated customer left the restaurant and drove the wrong way down the Highway, crashing head-on into the plaintiff’s car, killing the 12 year old passenger and injuring his father.

Indoor Air Quality - Expert Presentation on Sick Buildings
(Speaking Engagements - 05/03/11)

Ronald D. Schaible, CIH, CSP covered the subject of indoor air quality (including mold) and the various causes, manifestations, health effects, evaluation methods, and selected control measures associated with “sick buildings,” including workplaces. How these issues apply to litigation of personal injury, property damage and worker’s compensation claims, as well as the identification of potentially responsible parties.

Embankment Failure - Expert Investigates Slip on County Road
(Our Work - 04/28/11)

An embankment failure caused a road slip on a county road, requiring approximately $25,000 in repairs. The County Engineer claimed that the adjacent property owner’s construction of a horse barn was responsible for the failed embankment and sought financial retribution for the county. Robson Forensic was retained to determine the cause of the embankment failure and whether or not construction of the barn caused or contributed to the failure of the roadway embankment and subsequent road slip.

Doug Rowland, P.E. Lifts & Loads a Log Processor in Freezing Cond...
(Our Work - 04/25/11)

Towing / Recovery expert, Douglas J. Rowland, P.E., recounts a challenging towing job he managed involving a log processor in freezing conditions.

Doug’s experience as a heavy vehicle recovery and towing technician includes towing on and off-road, trucks ranging from tractor-trailer combinations to heavy construction equipment, winching and up-righting, proper loading and towing techniques, as well as securement. He is a mechanical engineer, licensed as a Professional Engineer in the State of New York. Doug has been performing forensic investigations across the United States since 2006.

Fluorine Gas - Expert Investigates Exposure from Excimer Laser
(Our Work - 04/21/11)

Ron Schaible investigated an incident where workers in a laser laboratory were injured when they were exposed to toxic fluorine gas from an Excimer laser. The workers were working with the laser in accordance with accepted, standard operating procedures; the root cause of the failure was a broken Brewster window. This failure was investigated by a fractologist (glass expert), who was also a Robson Forensic expert. Ron determined various defective conditions that contributed to the inhalation injury, including failure to provide proper alarms (they were located too far away to notify and facilitate exit before exposure occurred), improper placement of respiratory protection in the event of an emergency (it was located outside of the laboratory), and improper ventilation in that the laser cabinet had local exhaust capabilities but was ineffective when the access panel was legitimately open and the gas escaped directly into the laboratory. Ron performed dose reconstruction calculations for various exposure scenarios, all of which strengthened the “more likely than not” opinion that the worker was overexposed to fluorine gas.

Hydraulic Fracturing - Expert Article on the Impact to Drinking W...
(Articles - 04/18/11)

Hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” is a practice associated with unconventional natural gas development involving the high-pressure injection of water, sand, and chemicals deep underground to break up rock and shale formations and release deposits of natural gas. The fracking process has been known to create environmental problems such as contaminating groundwater that supplies communities with their drinking water, vapor intrusion of natural gas and chemicals into homes, and air pollution.

Parking Lot and Exterior Safety and Security
(Articles - 04/06/11)

At the 2010 Hospitality Law Conference, Donald Decker, CPP, an Expert with Robson Forensic, presented "Parking Lot and Exterior Safety and Security." His paper, published in the March, 2011 edition of HospitalityLawyer.com, In-House Counsel Newsletter, further explores the safety of parking facilities, crime through environmental design, and active security measures, such as CCTV and security personnel.

T-Rex Vehicle Registerable as a Motorcycle
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 03/30/11)

The opinion of Robson Forensic motorcycle expert, Erin Higinbotham, P.E., was critical in securing a court decision declaring the T-Rex as a registerable vehicle in Alberta, Canada. The court ultimately accepted arguments in favor of registering the T-Rex as a motorcycle. Follow the link below to see the court decision.

Hazardous / Nuclear Materials Expert Interviewed on News 12
(Videos - 03/25/11)

Hazardous / Nuclear Materials Expert, Michael D. Klein, P.E., CHMM, was interviewed on New 12 regarding the situation at Japan’s Fukushima plant and the potential implications for nuclear facilities across the United States.

How Safe Is My Bottled Water?
(Speaking Engagements - 03/23/11)

Environmental expert, Michael D. Klein, P.E., CHMM, presented on the sources and types of bottled water, bottled water disinfection, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation of bottled water, the requirements of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, bottled water terms, bottled water certification, and bottled water quality standards.

Manual Turnout Switch Machine Lever Injury
(Cases - 03/21/11)

During inclement winter weather, a railroad employee was struck in the face while operating a manual turnout switch machine lever. The employee claimed that the railroad’s actions or omissions created an unreasonably dangerous condition that was the cause of the injury. The railroad alleged that improper action by the employee was the cause.

We showed that the alleged improper actions of the employee could not have caused the lever to strike the employee as it did, and that the railroad’s allegation was not supported by any evidence. We determined that the railroad’s failure to properly maintain the switch machine and its attachments during the inclement weather created an unreasonably dangerous condition that was a cause of the employee’s injury and that the railroad’s failure to provide adequate warnings and training with regard to a stored energy hazard deprived the employee of the information needed to do the job safely.

How Safe Is My Drinking Water?
(Speaking Engagements - 03/18/11)

Environmental expert, Michael D. Klein, P.E., CHMM, presented on the Safe Water Drinking Act (SWDA) and its requirements for private water supply wells, public water works, drinking water distribution systems, the regulatory standards for each and the dangerous conditions that can exist in public and private drinking water systems.

Fishing Boat - Expert Investigates Sinking of Brand New Vessel
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 03/09/11)

An experienced delivery captain took possession of a brand new, high-end 35' sport fishing boat. Hours after leaving the dock, the boat sank in frigid water. The captain and crew died from hypothermia.

Naval Architecture - Expert Investigates Sinking of Luxury Sports...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 03/01/11)

A 60', custom sport fishing boat struck a submerged object offshore, at high speed, and sunk in less than 30 minutes. Our expert, retained by the Captain's counsel, investigated the sinking to determine if the actions taken by the professional Captain following the holing hastened the sinking. This luxury vessel was constructed with multiple non-watertight athwartship bulkheads. Our expert, a naval architect, showed that as such, the vessel was really a single compartment boat.

Boat Inspection - Expert Investigates Flooding Linked to Inspecti...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 02/24/11)

The owner/Captain of a 36' lobster boat died when he took his boat out for the first time after winter layup and the boat flooded in frigid water. We were engaged by plaintiff's counsel for the boat owner's estate.

Following winter layup, the defendant boatyard launched the boat and reported to the owner, "She was tight and ready to go". However, the boatyard failed to properly secure an aft inspection valve.

Roofer Injured: Fell Through Roof Decking, 20-30 feet, To the Flo...
(Our Work - 02/24/11)

A roofer was injured when he fell through a panel of gypsum roof decking at a commercial facility. The scope of the roofers’ project included removal of the existing roofing membrane and installation of a new membrane. On the day of the incident, the plaintiff was carrying two full pails of “glue” across a section of roof that had recently been covered with new insulation; he broke through the insulation and decking and fell 20-30 feet to the floor below.

Our expert showed that the decking collapse occurred because the deteriorated decking, stripped of the existing membrane, was unable to support the reasonable, expected loads. The owner of the building and the director of operations, acting as the design professional and construction administrator on this project, knew or should have known, that areas of gypsum decking were deteriorated and unable to support anticipated loadings. The building owner’s failure to survey the existing roof deck prior to construction and map out areas of known deterioration, as well as have a qualified person inspect the deck during roof stripping operations, exposed the plaintiff and his fellow workers to inadequate structural decking and was a cause of his injury. Our expert substantiated his opinion through use of applicable building codes and roofing standards.

The case settled favorably following the deposition of our expert.

Sexual Abuse - Expert Investigates Incident at Residential Facility
(Our Work - 02/18/11)

A 13 year old youth with multiple disabilities was court ordered to attend a residential treatment program. During the course of his participation in the program he was sexually abused on multiple occasions by a staff member who had a questionable work history and an insufficient background check prior to hire. Robson Forensic was retained to evaluate the standard of care regarding organizational practices, supervision and the health and safety of the individual.

Death through Inadequate Care
(Our Work - 02/18/11)

A 46 year old man with multiple medical conditions resided in a residential home based program. As part of his Plan of Care he participated in community integration activities. On one such overnight activity, the staff member assigned to his supervision neglected to follow the outlined dietary restrictions and eating protocol when giving food. The resident died as a result of eating food in a manner that was contraindicated to his health and medical conditions. Robson Forensic was retained to evaluate the standard of care as it relates to the adherence to an individual’s plan of care, the policies and procedures of the residence and the actions of the employee.

Life Care Planning - Expert Assesses Appropriateness and Reasonab...
(Our Work - 02/18/11)

A 55 year old man sustained multiple orthopedic and cognitive deficits as a result of a motor vehicle accident which impacted his ability to work and live independently. A life care plan was developed that was both duplicative and excessive. RFI was retained to determine the appropriateness and reasonability of the life care plan.

Vocational Rehabilitation - Expert Performs Employability Assessm...
(Our Work - 02/18/11)

A 76 year old woman sustained carpal tunnel syndrome as a result of ongoing and repetitive work tasks at her job. Her physical limitations, education, work history and the current job market affected her ability to benefit from retraining to return to work. RFI was retained to perform a vocational rehabilitation assessment and to make determination as to her employability.

Epoxy Resin - Expert Investigates Chemical Exposure at Industrial...
(Our Work - 02/02/11)

Plaintiff worked with various epoxy compounds while building aircraft components. Epoxy compounds are known potential sensitizing agents. Plaintiff worked without proper personal protective equipment (gloves) which caused skin irritation and sensitization over a nine month period. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and other product information from the chemical product manufacturer provided safety information but specific glove selection criteria was not provided. Plaintiff’s exposure to the epoxy materials caused severe skin irritation and sensitization.

RFI was retained by the plaintiff to determine whether the chemical product was defective in a manner that caused plaintiff’s injury, whether the chemical supplier violated applicable standards of care in a manner that caused plaintiff’s injury, and if the employer created a specific unsafe working condition that violated state or federal safety statutes, rules, or regulations in the industry and which created a high risk of serious injury.

RFI analyzed the safety issues of the epoxy chemicals, the adequacy of the safety information provided by the chemical manufacturer, and the actions of plaintiff’s employer regarding the standard of care required for the known specific hazard. The case settled favorably in mediation.

Parents' Expectations and Beliefs Toward the Relative Safety of R...
(Articles - 01/13/11)

This study examined parent’s expectations, attitudes, and perceptions toward the relative safety of their children riding bicycles at night with reflectors and/or head and tail lights.

Motorcycle Helmets - Expert Study on Consumers' Perception of Pr...
(Articles - 01/13/11)

This study examined consumer beliefs towards the level of protection offered by motorcycle helmets varying in price ($35, $60, $120, $240); level of certification (none, DOT, SNELL, both DOT and Snell); and at high versus low speed lay-down type crashes.

Consumers’ Interpretation of the Statement: “Do not leave [insert...
(Articles - 01/13/11)

Consumer’s interpretation and understanding of the commonly encountered instruction/warning “do not leave unattended” with respect to three different types of consumer products were examined. Two hundred and eleven respondents were surveyed in the Los Angeles, CA area. The majority of the participants interpreted the phrase differently than how the warning designer intended.

Hotel Security - Expert Article Published by HospitalityLawyer.com
(Articles - 12/16/10)

The hotel industry has often been accused of being negligent in the security of its guests. Negligent security claims have resulted in courts ruling that the hotel industry take a responsibility for the safety and security of their patrons. Security is one of the most important issues confronting the hotel industry today.

Motorcycle Expert Interviewed: Unintended Motorcycle Acceleration
(WebPages - 12/15/10)

Motorcycle expert, Erin Higinbotham, P.E., radio interview regarding unintended acceleration on a motorcycle.

Dust Fire - Expert Investigates Flash Fire Involving Oxyacetylene...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 12/13/10)

Ron Schaible investigated an incident involving a flash fire that occurred when combustible dust contacted the flame of an oxyacetylene torch.

Elizabeth Trendowski Interviewed by News 12: Responsible Service ...
(Videos - 11/17/10)

Watch Elizabeth Trendowski’s News 12 interview regarding the responsible service of alcohol.

An Introduction to Electronic Stability Control
(Speaking Engagements - 09/14/10)

Presentation developed by the automotive engineers at Robson Forensic, provides an overview on Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems, including information on how ESC systems work, their abilities and limitations.

56 vehicle collision, truckers claimed winter conditions occurred...
(Our Work - 09/12/10)

This fifty six-vehicle collision occurred under winter conditions. Truck drivers claimed heavy snow conditions occurred suddenly. A meteorological analysis was performed to determine how quickly weather conditions and visibility were changing at and near the collision site. Two figures were developed to show how heavy snow and reduced visibility developed over a period of several minutes at the crash site and as the trucks approached the crash site.

Tractor-Trailer Truck Lost Control On an Ice Covered Freeway
(Our Work - 08/04/10)

This tragic pre-Christmas double fatal collision occurred when both a minivan and a tractor-trailer truck lost control on an ice covered freeway. First the minivan lost control and spun safely to a stop. Next the truck lost control, jacknifed and hit the driver of the minivan and the minivan.

One defense adopted by the tractor trailer was that both vehicle drivers lost control, how could you blame the collision on the truck? Our meteorological analysis showed that the ground icing developed and advanced in the direction of the truck and contrary to the direction of the minivan. The truck had been driving in ice condition for half an hour, while the minivan had just encountered the condition.

Night Vision Devices - Expert Presentation to Lawyer Pilot's Bar
(Speaking Engagements - 06/10/10)

Matt earned a Commission in the United States Marine Corps in 1995, attended Naval Flight School, and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1998. He completed a Westpac deployment to the Middle East in 2001 and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. During OIF, he flew CASAVAC and combat missions, earning the Navy and Marine Corps Air Medal and Presidential Unit Citation.

Upon completion of his fleet tours, Matt was selected to instruct new helicopter pilots in the CH-46E. He attained the highest pilot evaluator qualification in Naval Aviation, was a Night Systems Flight Instructor and Instrument evaluator/examiner.

Understanding Ocean Engineering: Gulf Currents & HAZMAT Issues
(Articles - 06/04/10)

Ocean engineers combine several types of engineering. It is a mix of techniques and skills from mechanical, electrical, civil and chemical engineering...

The Long Term Impacts of Adding Oil to the Gulf Coast Eco-System
(Articles - 06/04/10)

The Long Term Impacts of Adding Oil to the Gulf Coast Eco-System: How will this affect our land, water, and air?

The Forensic Anatomy of the Events on the Deepwater Horizon
(Articles - 06/04/10)

Forensic Anatomy of the Events on the Deepwater Horizon: A look at offshore drilling technology, both past and future.

Settlement Reached in Fatal Car Crash Lawsuit: Plaintiffs Alleged
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 06/02/10)

Dram shop expert helped the families of four people, killed in a car crash by an off-duty police officer, reach a settlement with the officer and the restaurant/bar that provided the officer alcohol while she allegedly was intoxicated.

Prepared Foods: Fast & Easy for the Consumer, but Prepared Safely?
(Articles - 06/01/10)

Food Safety Expert: Barry Parsons, FMP

While dealing with reduced labor and, simultaneously, the expectation to become more efficient and productive, retailers are concerned about preparing food safely. It is imperative that their employees use food safety processes and procedures accurately, without taking shortcuts.

Robson Forensic Cycling Expert Featured in Freeride Mountain Biki...
(Videos - 06/01/10)

Watch Jeff Lenosky perform freeride stunts in a YouTube video clip from NWD7.

Rich Adams interviewed by uRide.TV at the 2010 Philadelphia Bike ...
(Videos - 06/01/10)

Rich Adams briefly discusses his custom bicycle business and showcases some examples of his work at the 2010 Philadelphia Bike Expo.

Elizabeth Trendowski Interviewed by News 12: Rise in Female DUIs
(Videos - 06/01/10)

Watch Elizabeth Trendowski’s News 12 interview regarding the rise in female DUI’s. (Low sound volume)

MDC Ordered To Pay $2.9 Million To Injured Bicyclist
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 05/13/10)

A Superior Court jury in Hartford awarded former children’s book illustrator $2.9 million for injuries suffered in a bicycle accident on land owned by the Metropolitan District Commission.

Presentation Capabilities
(Mailers - 05/03/10)

Each one of our experts has the skills necessary to perform a thorough and multi-dimensional investigation. With access to over 150 experts within one company, you are assured the most relevant insights to the topic of your choosing.

Tree Struck by Vehicle, Pedestrian Struck by Tree
(Our Work - 04/30/10)

A pedestrian was injured on an early winter morning when a tree that had fallen onto the roadway was struck by a passing vehicle and pushed onto the pedestrian. The tree fell as a result of extensive decay in the lower portion of the trunk on the side of the tree facing the road.

Robson Forensic highway engineers addressed tree placement with regard to right-of-ways; our dendrologist addressed the rate of decay and deterioration of the tree; and our facilities engineer, Brian O’Donel, addressed the standard of care for the private property owner inspecting and maintaining buildings and grounds, including trees and tree removal.

Based on the tree’s rate of decay and the applicable standard of care for maintaining facilities, Brian was able to establish that the property owner knew, or should have known that the tree was in a dangerous condition for over a year prior to its falling. The property owner violated property maintenance standards and local codes when they failed to address the unsafe condition, and this violation was a cause of the pedestrian’s injury.

This case settled favorably for our client.

Trendowski Finds New Career As Liquor-Liabiliy Expert
(Articles - 04/05/10)

The new area manager for Robson Forensic in Glastonbury is a dram shop [where liquor is served] liability expert who is retained by legal counsel in cases where people get hurt by someone served too much alcohol or in cases where alcohol is served to a minor.

Playground Safety Report
(Our Work - 02/01/10)

A child suffered a concussion and traumatic brain injury in a fall at a municipal playground. His head struck what should have been a protective surface under the play equipment, but the loose fill bark mulch was so thin there were areas where the stone sub-surface was visible. Robson Forensic was retained to evaluate the safety of the playground and to explain the standard of care for safe playground operations and maintenance.

High Pressure Sprayer - Expert Investigates Finger Loss from Pain...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 01/01/10)

Robson Forensic was retained by plaintiff counsel on a case involving the partial loss of a finger due to high pressure injection of paint/solvent at an employer’s premises. Ron Schaible addressed multiple issues in this matter, including worker training & instruction, lack of use of guards for paint gun nozzles, and warnings.

Worker Trapped in Machine Sustains Crush Injuries, Receives Settl...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 12/01/09)

A worker was trapped and suffered crush injuries to his abdomen and internal organs, when attempting to clear a jam in a copper coil stacker.

Agricultural Machinery Operator Safety
(Articles - 12/01/09)

Presents an alternative way of looking at Agricultural Safety, that is, by applying Forensic lnvestigation, forensic Engineering, and Forensic Science techniques to accidents and illnesses specifically involving the operator.

Children's Expectations & Beliefs Toward the Relative Safety of R...
(Articles - 12/01/09)

This study examined middle-school-aged children's expectations, attitudes, and perceptions toward the relative safety of riding bicycles at night with reflectors and/or head and tail lights.

DON’T FAKE THE ID CHECKING: The challenge of checking ID’s properly
(Articles - 11/19/09)

“May I see your ID please?” is the first question every liquor license establishment should require of their staff. Twenty-one is the legal age to purchase alcohol in every state in the U.S. While there are debates going on currently regarding lowering the drinking age, the legal age remains twenty-one to purchase alcohol. A person must show a valid ID to purchase alcohol. As a threshold matter, a valid ID is a non-expired ID. Valid IDs to purchase alcohol are issued by the state or federal government. These include drivers licenses, passports, green cards, state issued ID’s military ID and possibly gun permits. The liquor licensee should check with their state for the specific IDs allowable to purchase alcohol.

Determining Past Weather Conditions and their Effects on Motor Ve...
(Speaking Engagements - 10/02/09)

Dr. Raymond Lee delivered this presentation to the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers on October 2, 2009.

Dr. Lee is an expert in meteorology and visibility. He applies this expertise to the investigation of matters involving personal injury or economic loss.

Defense Verdict in High Speed Crash
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 08/12/09)

A jury found in favor of the County in a single vehicle run off the road crash on a County road. When the plaintiff rounded a curve to the left, his right wheels went off the pavement and he lost control, swerving across the roadway before striking a utility pole.

Ten steps to reducing liability at your aquatic facility
(Articles - 08/12/09)

Well run swimming pools are an attractive amenity that can dramatically increase revenue. Improperly run aquatic facilities will increase liability instead, and an overlooked hazard can lead to tragedy. Following is a list of ten commonly overlooked items that are easy to address, and when given proper attention, may save money on insurance costs, and will save lives.

Robson Forensic Case Reports: Construction
(Our Work - 08/11/09)

Construction cases often require an expert with focused expertise. We have experts in architecture, civil, electrical, mechanical, geotechnical and materials sciences.

Robson Forensic Case Reports: Crash Reconstruction
(Our Work - 08/11/09)

Our vehicle crash group consists of reconstruction experts and highway engineers supported by specialists in areas that impact vehicle-related incidents such as conspicuity, illumination, visibility, materials science, meterorology, biomechanical and human factors

Robson Forensic Case Reports: Specialty
(Our Work - 08/11/09)

Specialty Cases inlcuding double homicide, visibilty, trailer injury, boating issues, engine defects, peir falls, anchor chain injury, icing issues and more.

Robson Forensic Case Reports: Premises
(Our Work - 08/11/09)

Our premises liability team of architects and engineers is trained to investigate cases involving the design, construction, operation and maintenance of redidential, insttitutional and commercial premises.

Robson Forensic Case Reports: Workplace
(Our Work - 08/11/09)

Our industrial/workplace safety group includes engineers, occupational safety specialists and certified industrial hygienists.

Vehicle Turn Radius - Expert Diagram of a Vehicle on a 31 Foot Turn
(Articles - 08/05/09)

Diagram of vehicle on a 31 foot turn radius.

DuPont Found Grossly Negligent in 2004 Spill
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 07/14/09)

On Monday, July 13, 2009, the jury hearing the 2004 DuPont Litigation returned a verdict in excess of $1.25 million for plaintiffs, who are but six of the 179 individuals suing E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Company for injuries they sustained as a result of DuPont's October 11, 2004 release of clouds of toxic fuming sulfuric acid from its Wurtland plant over large portions of Greenup County, Kentucky. The remaining 173 plaintiffs' cases will be tried, under the streamlined trial plan developed by the Honorable David L. Bunning, as soon as Octover 2009.

Forensic Ergonomics: An Introduction to Theory and Practice
(Speaking Engagements - 06/22/09)

The field of human factors/ergonomics has grown into countless areas of human-system interactions, from product and machine design to driver safety and workplace injury reduction. There is now a large body of well established and empirical research to serve as the foundation for analyzing personal-injury and property-damage incidents to determine what happened, why it happened, could it have been safely mitigated, and who was responsible to ensure it did not happen. As such, human factors/ergonomics scientists and practitioners are being called upon in greater numbers to assist the courts in determining just outcomes for litigants. Their analyses and conclusions are being used to establish theories of liability for assigning corporate and social responsibility as well as defenses to such allegations.

Workplace Ergonomics - Expert Investigates Railroad Worker’s Comp...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 05/28/09)

A railroad worker had surgery for bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome and claimed a repetitive strain injury (RSI) was the cause. He alleged that he had been injured due to ergonomic hazards from the tools, machine and equipment he used, and the work tasks he performed in the course of his employment.

Bicycle Defect Causes Crash
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 04/08/09)

A man crashed his bicycle and suffered paralyzing injuries. According to a witness, the injured man was riding in front of him when he was suddenly catapulted from his bike and landed on his head.

Summer Injuries - Robson Forensic
(Mailers - 03/04/09)

The activities of summer may seem routine, but according to a leading safety organization, people are more likely to be injured in the summer than any other time throughout the year. Around the house, activities as routine as mowing the lawn or cooking on a grill can cause severe injuries. Swimming, water sports, and boating can result in drownings. A celebratory fireworks display can lead to severe burns or traumatic injuries.

In 2007 Motor Vehicle Collisions Resulted in Excess of 40,000 Fat...
(Mailers - 03/04/09)

In 2007 motor vehicle collisions resulted in excess of 40,000 fatalities and almost 2,500,000 injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website. It is often important to determine both how a crash occurred and the underlying causes of both the crash and resultant injury.

Bromine Exposure - Expert Investigates Chemical Release from Brom...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 02/19/09)

While at work, a building maintenance contract employee was adding bromine tablets to a brominator when there was a severe chemical reaction. The brominator was part of a water treatment system, which had changes made to its piping system. It was located in the chemical feed injection area of a generator room. The contents of the brominator violently released chemicals when a reaction occurred due to the presence of an incompatible substance in the brominator. The chemicals splashed into the man’s eyes and all over his body. The man, blinded and burned by the chemicals, attempted to make his way to an emergency shower which was in an adjacent building. He stumbled and fell over several obstacles before he finally reached the shower.

Robson Forensic was asked to determine if the sole emergency shower and eyewash was improperly located in a manner that contributed to the severity of the man’s injuries. We were also asked to determine if the actions of the chemical supplier were reasonable.

Boat Collision - Expert Investigation into Criminal Charges Resul...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 01/19/09)

A woman passenger was killed and three others were injured when a power boat collided with a personal watercraft (PWC). Robson Forensic was retained to reconstruct the collision

Injury Causation
(Mailers - 01/06/09)

Our Bioengineering experts apply mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering to determine the cause of bone, tissue and organ failure within the human body.

Robson Forensic Presents: Product Safety: Appliances
(Mailers - 11/04/08)

Building systems and appliances are designed to provide safety, comfort and convenience to those who use them.

Settlement in Two-Vehicle Crash Involving Police Cruiser and Limi...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 08/01/08)

When a taxi was struck on the left rear side by a police cruiser that admittedly ran a red light, one rear passenger was thrown from the car and both rear seat passengers were injured.

The IDs Are Fake But The Problem Isn't
(Articles - 07/21/08)

Many parent of teenagers remember their own days of drinking alcohol before they were of legal age. Some were able to get served at the local bar...

Expand Alcohol Server Training
(Articles - 07/20/08)

Most restaurants and bars don’t train their staff to detect when a patron is getting drunk. Public safety would be better served if Connecticut either made server training mandatory or created incentives that would motivate bars and restaurants to train personnel.

$35 Million Settlement in Class Action Fire Case
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 06/02/08)

A fire destroyed a business center and damaged neighboring buildings resulting in a class action suit with more than 100 claimants and 16 defendants.

$1.1 Million Settlement in School Trip Drowning Case
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 04/30/08)

A boy drowned in a creek while on a fieldtrip. Robson Forensic was retained to determine if the actions of the school or its designees contributed to the boy’s death.

Alcohol Impairment - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 04/03/08)

When alcohol is identified as a factor in an injury incident, it is often assumed to be the only cause. Our experts determine if alcohol played a causative or contributing role.

Child Supervision - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 02/18/08)

A child’s safety depends in large part on the quality of adult supervision. Effective supervision is much more than merely watching children play.

Judge Acquits Driver of DUI in Criminal Homicide Case
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 02/14/08)

A settlement was reached in a two-car collision that resulted in the death of a passenger who was 8-months pregnant at the time.

Display Hook Injuries to Children
(Articles - 01/15/08)

No safety-minded individual would consider it reasonable to construct a wall with spikes projecting into the adjacent aisle ways which are hazards to children and can cause eye injuries.

Indoor Swimming Pool Air Quality - Expert Article
(Articles - 01/15/08)

Natatoriums, Pool Water Chemistry, Health Effects of pool Off-Gassing, Pool Operations Solutions, Chemical Solutions, Indoor Air Quality, and HVAC System Solutions

Ship Fire Safety Design
(Articles - 01/15/08)

Ship Fire Safety - International shipboard fire protection requirements for large passenger ships. Domestice regulations and standards for small passenger ships.

Jury Finds for Plaintiff in Hospital Warnings Case
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 12/12/07)

A patient fell and was injured when he stepped through an open door from a hospital cafeteria onto a patio.

RFI Expert Testifies in Firefighter Death Case, Jury awards $27 m...
(Verdicts \ Settlements - 12/10/07)

A Missouri jury awarded $27 million to the family of a firefighter whose death was the result of a malfunctioning breathing apparatus.

Aging Consequences - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 07/11/07)

Consequences of aging can include decreases in physical strength and agility, poorer balance, reductions in visual, auditory and sensory ability, and increases in the time required for perception, analysis and reaction. Preventing injuries to this growing population requires special attention to facilities and products that serve them. Issues may include hot water temperature settings, evenness of walking surfaces, product safety features to accommodate lower grip and lifting strength, placement and selection of warning and informational signs, and adjustment of escalators, elevators, and automatic doors.

Tires and Vehicle Cases - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 05/21/07)

The Robson Forensic, Inc. Vehicle Crash Group includes reconstruction, vehicle and highway engineers supported by specialists in areas that impact vehicle-related incidents such as materials science, meteorology, human factors, products and biomechanical engineering.

Biomechanics - Bioengineering- Biomedical - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 05/21/07)

Our Bioengineering practice includes degreed and licensed Biomechanical and Biomedical Engineers. Our experts offer leading-edge technical expertise and interdisciplinary knowledge, combined with years of collective experience in litigation, arbitration and mediation. Working with both plaintiff and defense cases, we provide scrupulous analysis and a balanced perspective.

Child Safety - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 05/21/07)

Robson Forensic has 20 years of experience analyzing aspects of cases and claims that are unique to child injuries. Our sports, recreation, facility design and product experts are active in organizations promulgating standards and procedures aimed at protecting children from injury.

Human Factors - The Science of Perception and Interaction
(Mailers - 05/20/07)

Robson Forensic, Inc. Human Factors experts provide scientific answers to questions involving perception, warnings, instructions and conspicuousness. We evaluate if the conditions that resulted in cases or claims were open and obvious as presented to the claimant.

Boating and Recreation Safety - Robson Forensic Experts
(Mailers - 05/18/07)

When you have cases involving recreational boating, aquatics, or summer recreation, we can help. Our specialized marine and aquatic experts possess extensive experience and training in watercraft design, performance and operations and stand ready to assist your litigation/subrogation.

The Role of the Indoor Environmental Professional in Mold Remedia...
(Articles - 05/18/07)

Mold is prominent in the news. But why now? This article summarizes some salient issues involving mold, including: (a) the current status of mold “science” and regulations; (b) what causes mold within indoor environments; (c) how the presence of mold is evaluated, and its implications for exposure; and (d) basic considerations in mold remediation projects.

Electronic Evidence in Small Cases and Private Litigation
(Articles - 05/08/07)

Failing to build or defend a case in the best manner—which may be informed by electronic records, documents, or data—may not only prejudice the case, but be deemed malpractice.

Machine Guarding The Second Alternative
(Articles - 05/07/07)

It is often the tendency in industry to look at a dangerous situation and try to decide what the appropriate machine guarding technique or device should be employed. This practice may produce satisfactory results but it overlooks the first step in the safety hierarchy.

Just Add Water
(Articles - 04/30/07)

It's the hottest trend to hit the hospitality industry in decades: to increase heads in beds, just add an indoor waterpark to a hotel. It works so well that some chains have come up with their own formula to expedite the process

Perception of Risk - Expert Article
(Articles - 05/07/06)

This paper presents an overview of what risk is, its relationship to hazards, how it can be assessed and used to make intelligent business decisions, and how risk may be perceived by employers, workers, and those that help decide matters involving litigation – jurors.

Chemical Safety - Expert Investigates Exposure in Chemical Process
(Our Work - 01/25/06)

“If anything can go wrong, it will do so at the worst possible moment and in the worst possible ways”. Ron Schaible investigated an incident involving a runaway chemical process that was improperly engineered. Coupled with workers who were not properly trained in the hazards of the chemicals and who were not provided with proper engineering controls and proper personal protective equipment, injury was sure to result. This case settled before Ron Schaible was scheduled to be deposed.

Bicycle Crash Reconstruction
(Articles - 10/01/05)

Bicycle Crash Reconstruction involves the application of scientific and engineering principles to determine how the incident started and what initiated the loss of control. Vehicle speeds and positions at various times and distances are investigated, as well as the location of vehicles at impact.

Robson Forensic Brochure
(Our Work - 08/07/02)

Robson Forensic has been providing high quality and professional forensic engineering, architectural, scientific and investigative services throughout the United States since 1987. Robson Forensic provides expertise in a broad range of forensic and technical disciplines.