NCJ Number
77931
Date Published
1980
Length
210 pages
Annotation
The objectives, operations, and evaluation results of the California Highway Patrol's multidisciplinary accident investigation teams (MAIT) equipment and services project are discussed.
Abstract
Two teams were established, each staffed by trained investigators with skills in accident reconstruction, traffic engineering, and automotive engineering. The first phase of the three-phase project was equipment needs assessment and acquisition, which included the purchase of such equipment as vans equipped with drafting materials; extensive photographic equipment; portable generators and lights for illuminating accident scenes; and special date-gathering measuring equipment. The second phase provided for funds to be set aside for use of consultants as needed. The consultants would have expertise in such areas as medicine, psychology, metallurgy, chemistry, physics, etc. The third phase conducted two evaluations designed to determine the effectiveness of the equipment and whether or not additional or modified equipment was needed to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the project; and whether or not the consultant phase was an effective means of augmenting the teams. The project began in July 1978 and concluded on December 31, 1979. MAIT personnel investigated 124 collisions. Overall, the equipment proved to be very useful, although a few items were of limited effectiveness. Consultants working with project personnel have improved their investigative skills. Criminal prosecution cases following MAIT investigations have been very successful. Appended are a MAIT training curriculum, a list of equipment originally purchased for the project, a list of additional equipment purchased pursuant to the amended agreement, representative examples of MAIT accomplishments, agreements and amendments, and the order authorizing MAIT.