Patrick Nelson, ACTAR

Accident Reconstructionist

Phoenix

About

Patrick Nelson is an accident reconstructionist with more than 20 years of experience in law enforcement, forensic investigation, and collision analysis. He specializes in the reconstruction of passenger vehicle, commercial vehicle, and multi-vehicle crashes, applying advanced analytical techniques to determine vehicle dynamics, impact forces, visibility factors, and pre- and post-collision events. Patrick's expertise includes scene documentation and mapping, vehicle inspections, Event Data Recorder (EDR) imaging and analysis, momentum and energy-based crash reconstruction, and the use of industry-standard simulation and diagramming software.

Expertise in Accident Reconstruction

Before joining Knott, Patrick served as an Accident Reconstructionist with the Maricopa County Office of the Public Defender and spent more than 13 years as a Detective with the Gilbert Police Department. His investigative background provides a strong foundation for evaluating complex collision events in civil, criminal, and administrative matters. He has supported attorneys, insurers, and litigants in both plaintiff and defense cases by conducting forensic analyses, preparing expert and rebuttal reports, reviewing discovery materials, and assisting with litigation strategy.

Patrick is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR #5272) and remains actively involved in several professional accident reconstruction and investigative organizations. He also serves as First Sergeant with the Arizona Air National Guard, bringing a disciplined and methodical approach to every investigation.

Education

A.A.S. Intelligence Studies & Technology

Community College of the Air Force

Maxwell AFB, AL

2018

A.A.S. Administration of Justice Studies

Rio Salado College

Tempe, AZ

2018

Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction

ACTAR

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