Lenka Stepan, Ph.D.

Principal Biomechanics Consultant

Dr. Lenka Stepan is a Biomechanics Principal specializing in injury biomechanics and accident reconstruction at Guidance Engineering and Applied Research. Dr. Stepan analyzes human injuries and reconstructs accidents using biomechanical techniques that apply principles of engineering to the human body. For accidents and product failures, she determines the biomechanical mechanisms of injury, uses injuries as physical evidence to reconstruct the events, and examines the forces and motions in the context of those experienced during non-injurious activities. In addition, Dr. Stepan has investigated injury potential using anthropometric testing devices (crash test dummies), computer modeling, and statistical techniques. Dr. Stepan has conducted biomechanical analyses for injury claims arising from recreational activities (such as skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, mountain biking, wakeboarding, waterskiing, ATVs, snowmobiling, etc.), slip/trip and falls, product failures, motor vehicle accidents, maritime accidents, and heavy equipment operation.

Dr. Stepan is actively involved in sport safety research including examining the efficacy of helmets for snow and water sports, ski area padding, skier speeds and reaction times, terrain park jumps, ski lift loading and unloading, and restraint bar use. Dr. Stepan is the USA National Secretary of the International Society for Skiing Safety and a member of ASTM F27 for Snow and Water Sports and ASTM F08 on Sports Equipment, Playing Surfaces and Facilities.