NCJ Number
130017
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 39 Issue: 4 Dated: (April 1991) Pages: 15-16
Date Published
1991
Length
2 pages
Annotation
The investigation of motor vehicle accidents is seldom done in some police departments; the skills needed for investigating a fatal collision are frequently lacking.
Abstract
It is especially important that police officers take the time to gather all evidence, even though the time and effort involved may be extensive. The investigation of a fatal accident should begin when the call is received. Caller information should be relayed to an accident investigator who should note the time when dispatched, the route traveled to the scene, and the time of arrival. The scene of a fatal collision should be treated the same as a crime scene. The first priority is to check for injuries and obtain needed medical help. Involved drivers should be identified, and activity at the scene should be kept to a minimum so as not to disturb physical evidence. The road surface should be assessed, and vehicle interiors should be examined for contact damage that may have resulted from occupants striking parts of the interior. Various parts of the vehicles should be examined and photographed if damaged, a scale diagram of the scene should be prepared for all fatal collisions, and individuals involved in the accident and witnesses should be interviewed.