NCJ Number
197111
Date Published
2001
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the organizational planning necessary for conducting a motor vehicle collision investigation.
Abstract
Organizational preparation, programs for special data collection, forms, filing, equipment, training, at-scene investigation, and hit-and-run investigation are discussed in relation to the steps that an administrator must take to be successful in running a collection investigation program. Some examples include preparing written directives for the first-response officer; photography procedures; preparation of forms for collection of special data or bi-level reporting; creation of report forms for basic data collection including specific items; narrative or argumentative information reporting; collecting minimum factual information for statistical tabulation; and the limited usefulness of forms in finding out how or why a specific collision occurred. A description is given for the basic form for use in minor accidents; the standard form for most traffic collisions; and supplementary forms for extended collision investigation, with visual illustrations included. Measuring is discussed with minimum equipment and additional equipment identified. The usefulness of cameras, film, lenses, shutters, flash equipment, filters, and tripods is described. Various training courses are discussed including collision reporting, at-scene additional data collection, technical follow-up, traffic-collision reconstruction, and cause analysis training. Investigator qualities such as experience, habits, and practice are described as important. Considerations are discussed that are important in planning such as flexibility, urgency and timing, severity of collision, pilferage, getting help, and dividing up work. And finally in the case of a hit and run, finding the missing driver is paramount next to keeping the accident scene from getting worse. A list of reference sources is included at the end of the chapter.