MAITE LOPEZ
B.S.
Ms. Lopez earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from California State University, Northridge. The acquisition of such a degree required study of Static and Dynamic Systems, Thermodynamics, Material Science, Computer-Aided Analysis, Mechatronics, Fundamentals of Energy Systems, and Machine Design and Manufacturing Methods. Ms. Lopez’s professional experience prior to joining the Institute of Risk and Safety Analyses included creating work instructions for the processing of seals in application of aerospace and military systems at United Precision Corporation in Chatsworth, California. Through this experience, Ms. Lopez is able to interpret specifications and analyze how, where, and why processes fail.
Ms. Lopez applies her experience and understanding of the principles of Physics and Mathematics to analyze and reconstruct accidents. For transportation accidents, she uses the analysis and problem-solving skills she refined in her undergraduate years to investigate and determine information vital to the reconstruction of the accident (such as the angle of impact, crush depths, change in velocity, G-forces, speed of the vehicles involved, and the accelerations and forces experienced as a result of a collision). For premises liability, she utilizes her knowledge of ANSI and OSHA standards to determine liability.
Ms. Lopez employs the discipline for Accident Reconstruction to analyze safety in designs, practices, and procedures. Her forensic investigations have included the following types of accidents: automobile vs. automobile, automobile vs. pedestrian, premises liability, and products liability.
