Temperature variations in automobiles in various weather conditions. An experimental contribution to the determination of time of death

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2001 Sep;22(3):215-9. doi: 10.1097/00000433-200109000-00001.

Abstract

From January 1995 through March 2000, temperatures in the passenger compartment of automobiles of different sizes were measured under varying weather conditions (sunshine, cloudy skies, rain) at two locations in eastern Switzerland. During the cold season, the interior temperature rose to 21 degrees C when cars were exposed to sunshine, whereas in summer interior temperature extremes of up to 89 degrees C were recorded. Make, model, and color of the vehicles were of only minor influence.

MeSH terms

  • Automobiles
  • Death*
  • Forensic Medicine / methods
  • Humans
  • Seasons
  • Temperature*
  • Time Factors
  • Weather