Why Complex Cases Often Require a Multidisciplinary Expert Approach

 

In forensic investigations, not all cases present a straightforward cause-and-effect scenario. Many incidents are the result of multiple overlapping systems, and understanding what truly happened often requires the collaboration of experts from different technical disciplines. Whether it’s a vehicle fire, structural failure, or building defect, a multidisciplinary approach is often the only way to develop a complete, accurate picture of the incident.

When One Expert Isn’t Enough
Some forensic cases involve systems that span mechanical, electrical, structural, thermal, and human factors domains. Relying on a single expert—no matter how qualified—may result in a partial or even misleading conclusion. In these situations, two or more experts must work together to analyze evidence from different perspectives and form a unified, fact-based narrative.

 

Below are several examples that highlight the importance of cross-disciplinary forensic collaboration:

1. Vehicle Fire Investigation: Electrical Engineer + Fire Investigator
Scenario:
A vehicle bursts into flames minutes after being parked. The owner claims the fire was caused by an electrical defect in the vehicle’s wiring, possibly related to aftermarket modifications.

Why Multiple Experts Are Needed:

A fire investigator is responsible for determining the origin and cause of the fire using NFPA 921 standards. They examine burn patterns, materials involved, and ignition sources.

An electrical engineer evaluates the vehicle’s electrical system—particularly any aftermarket additions—to determine whether a short circuit, battery fault, or component failure contributed to the fire.

By working together, the experts can determine whether the fire was the result of an internal electrical failure, external heat source, human action, or a combination of factors.

 

2. Water Intrusion in a Commercial Building: Structural Engineer + Mechanical Engineer
Scenario:
Tenants in a commercial building report repeated water damage and mold growth. Initial theories point to roof failure, poor drainage, or HVAC system malfunction.

Why Multiple Experts Are Needed:

A structural engineer will assess the integrity of the roof, building envelope, and window systems to determine whether water is penetrating through failed structural components.

A mechanical engineer will inspect the HVAC system for improper condensation control, clogged drain lines, or negative pressure issues drawing in outside moisture.

In many cases, both systems are partially responsible. A holistic investigation allows insurance carriers and building owners to identify all contributing sources and allocate repair responsibilities appropriately.

 

3. Residential Deck Collapse: Structural Engineer + Materials Scientist
Scenario:
A deck collapses during a gathering, resulting in multiple injuries. The homeowner had recently repaired the deck using new fasteners and treated wood.

Why Multiple Experts Are Needed:

A structural engineer evaluates the deck’s design, construction, and load capacity, checking whether the framing and connections were up to code.

A materials scientist examines the condition and quality of fasteners, wood treatment, and potential corrosion—especially if dissimilar metals were used or environmental conditions played a role.

This combined approach can determine whether the failure was due to design errors, substandard materials, improper installation, or long-term degradation.

 

4. Product Failure Resulting in Injury: Mechanical Engineer + Human Factors Expert
Scenario:
A consumer is seriously injured while using a power tool. The manufacturer claims misuse, while the injured party claims the product was unsafe by design.

Why Multiple Experts Are Needed:

A mechanical engineer examines the product’s design and manufacturing quality to assess whether the tool performed as intended under expected use conditions.

A human factors expert evaluates labeling, instructions, and interface design to determine whether a typical user could reasonably be expected to operate the product safely.

Together, they can assess not just whether the product was defective, but whether it was foreseeably misused due to unclear instructions or poor design.

 

Why Collaboration Matters
In multidisciplinary cases, the sequence and timing of events are often critical. For example, did a fire cause an electrical failure—or did an electrical failure cause the fire? Was the water damage due to HVAC condensation, or did it originate from a compromised roof structure?

Without input from multiple specialists, these questions often remain unanswered—or worse, misinterpreted.

 

Benefits of a Multidisciplinary Expert Team:

Comprehensive analysis of all systems and failure modes

Corroborating evidence across disciplines

Improved credibility in legal proceedings

Accurate identification of root causes and contributing factors

Clearer communication to non-technical stakeholders (juries, insurers, attorneys)

 

Conclusion
Complex cases demand a complex approach. When incidents involve overlapping systems or multiple possible failure points, a multidisciplinary team of experts can provide the technical clarity and investigative depth required to reach sound conclusions. Whether it’s a fire, collapse, defect, or injury, having the right combination of experts makes all the difference in uncovering the truth and delivering justice.