Computer-Generated Interactive Displays as an Aid in Explaining Complex Accidents to the Trier of Fact

Abstract

Streimer (1973) proposed that information serves three functions: description, prediction, and persuasion. All three functions are important in forensic human factors. The purpose of this paper is to describe the use of an interactive computer graphic display (ICGD) in explaining the probable causes of an accident to attorneys, and, potentially, to the trier of fact. ICGDs appear well suited to demonstrating the functional relationship between components in complex systems. An example of ICGD used to explain what went wrong in the operation of a power press where a worker was electrocuted shall be presented.