The Traffic Accident Reconstruction Origin -ARnews-

Re: Can you see and hear the lights and siren?

Bob Cole (rpcole@ican.ca)
Thu, 12 Nov 1998 09:40:47 -0500 (EST)

I can't resist - depending on the size and location of the siren it is unlikely that the other driver saw it ("....possibly see siren or lights before impact?")

Unfortunately I did not save it but a local newspaper ran a story a few weeks ago about researchers in England working on new sirens that operate at a different frequency that can be picked up better by the human ear - the main problems stated in the article was better soundproofing in cars and louder stereos.

As far as lights being noticed reflecting off buildings - a lot of variables. The two extremes to picture:
1. A bright sunny day - obviously not a lot of reflected light will be seen.
2. A dark night - no moon, no streetlights, no other cars - the reflected flashing lights will be more noticeable.
A lot of room in between the two extremes - you can find out about moon, cloud cover, street lights etc. The hard part will be determining other vehicles that are either illuminating the buildings themselves or are causing glare for the driver.
Bob Cole
rpcole@ican.ca

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