Craig Arnold, MSc, ChFP MCSFS, FIMI AAE
Director – Forensic Collision Investigation
Get to know the expert
Expert QuestionS & AnswerS
What evidence may be overlooked by lawyers or claims handlers when it comes to collision reconstruction?
If the vehicle is still available, consider crash data. Whilst event data recorders (EDR) have been fitted to vehicles for years, there was limited download support. Since 2022, many more vehicles have been supported. Check, and if supported, ensure a download is obtained, or the module is kept for later download. These modules contain objective crash data that can be incredibly useful on cases of suspected fraud, contested liability, or contributory negligence.
What questions should clients ask when vetting an expert in your field — and what answers should they look for?
The most important thing to consider is the key aspects of the case. None of us can be an expert in everything. One area I see lots of issues in is video analysis and in-vehicle data. Data has become increasingly complex. In video, the ease with which AI can alter a video means there is a real risk if this is not considered appropriately. For in-vehicle data, Event Data Recorder (EDR) support is increasing, yet these data can be easily misinterpreted, meaning specific expertise is key.
Tell us about a recent case or project where your specific expertise made a measurable difference to the outcome.
As a specialist in digital data, I am often asked to conduct 3D modelling of sightlines from vehicles (often goods vehicles). In a recent case involving a cyclist and a heavy goods vehicle, I conducted 3D laser scanning to show the points from which the cyclist could have been observed. This showed the cyclist was in view for a limited time. Blind spots on HGVs can be significant, meaning it is important that investigations consider views and map these out in sufficient detail to allow analysis.
How can collision reconstruction evidence combat fraudulent claims?
Good collision investigators are experienced in reviewing evidence and challenging assumptions. In a recent case, I used evidence from a vehicle inspection in which I examined seat belts and downloaded EDR data to refute a significant claim. The parties alleged the vehicle contained 3 rear-seat passengers who were all injured. The evidence revealed that there were no rear-seat passengers. Our biomechanics experts can also consider whether reported injuries are consistent with the circumstances.
What are the challenges surrounding video evidence? Where there is poor-quality video, can it still be analysed to determine a vehicle’s speed, for example?
Short answer: Yes. Slightly longer answer: Some videos may benefit from enhancement, which is an area I specialise in. This involves advanced forensic software and techniques to ensure the results are reproducible and reliable for use in Court. Where enhancement is not appropriate, speed analysis may still be possible. Often, poor quality video results in a wider range of uncertainty, so it may only be possible to provide a range of possible speeds.
Background
Craig Arnold is a Chartered Forensic Collision Investigator and Director of Road Traffic Collision Investigation at Rimkus, leading the firm’s Road Traffic Collision practice across EMEA. He is an expert witness with over 20 years’ experience investigating, reconstructing, and analysing road traffic collisions. He regularly provides expert evidence in complex and high-value cases.
Craig is recognised for his expertise in forensic collision investigation and reconstruction, particularly in pedestrian, motorcycle, and commercial vehicle collisions. He regularly undertakes advanced sightline analysis, vehicle dynamics assessments, and 3D modelling and visualisation to assist courts, legal teams, insurers, and other stakeholders in understanding complex situations.
Craig specialises in interpreting and analysing digital evidence, including Event Data Recorder (EDR) evidence, telematics, tachographs, and accelerometer data. He has applied this expertise in fraud cases involving staged collisions. He is a Certified Forensic Video Technician (CFTV), with experience in video enhancement, comparison, audio analysis, and speed analysis. His work extends to connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs), e-bikes, and e-scooters.
Craig has prepared numerous expert reports and has delivered expert testimony across Criminal, Civil, Coroner’s Courts, and Public Inquiries. He is regularly instructed in cases involving complex digital evidence and has extensive experience in commercial vehicle operations, including load security and the handling of abnormal loads.
Before joining Rimkus, Craig served as Technical Lead for the Forensic Investigations team at the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), where he led forensic collision investigations on behalf of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). His experience spans the United Kingdom, Europe, South America, Africa, and the Middle East.
Craig is actively involved in advancing forensic science. He is Honorary Secretary of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, sits on the Editorial Board of Elsevier’s Science and Justice journal, peer reviews technical publications for Elsevier and SAE International, serves as a subject matter expert on speed analysis for the Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association (LEVA), and contributes to industry guidance and standards relating to collision investigation.
Education and Certifications
- Leadership in Performance Management in Road Safety, MSc: Liverpool Hope University (2018)
- Forensic Road Collision Investigation (inc. UCPD), CertHE: De Montfort University (2017)
- Certificate in Learning & Development (Trainer / Assessor qualification): Team Enterprises (2014)
- Chartered Forensic Collision Investigator: Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (2025)
- Certified Forensic Video Technician (CFTV): LEVA (2021)
- Bosch CDR Technician, Analyst, and Trainer: Various (2021 onwards)
- Advanced Human Factors: Driver Research Institute (2025)
Associations and Memberships
- Chartered Practitioner (Forensic Collision Investigation): Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences
- Fellow / Advanced Automotive Engineer and Trainer: Institute of the Motor Industry
Publications
- Arnold, C. & Barrow, A. (2026) Fraud or Force: Using objective crash data in personal injury claims. Expert Witness, April 2026.
- Hemans, M., Fuller-Dapaah, A., Karad, H., Arnold, C. (2025) Bus safety programme: Harsh braking. Crowthorne, TRL.TSO. (2024) DVSA Guide to better driving. (Reviewer), London: TSO.
- Arnold, C., Fuller-Dapaah, A., Zaid, M. & Ekambaram, K. (2024) CPR4180 Using Collision Investigations to drive safety solutions. Crowthorne, Berkshire: TRL.Arnold, C. (2023) Audio analysis in collision investigation: the often-overlooked aspect of video footage. Impact 31(2).
- Arnold, C., Fuller-Dapaah, A., Ekambaram, K., & Edwards, A. (2023) RPN6142 Annual Collision Analysis Report (2022 cases). Crowthorne, Berkshire: TRL.
- The Police Foundation (2021 & 2025) Roadcraft: The Police Driver’s Handbook. London: TSO (Contributor).
- Stuttard, N., Mutzenich, C., Knightley, A., Deans, A., Martin, P. & Arnold, C. (2023) CPR4048 Connected Vehicle data management, user engagement & experience, and OEM/Insurer integration. Crowthorne, Berkshire: TRL.
- Arnold, C. and Perrin, W. (2022) Automated Vehicle Safety Assurance – In-use safety and security monitoring: Post-event investigation process. Crowthorne, Berkshire: TRL.