NCJ Number
74995
Date Published
1981
Length
194 pages
Annotation
This manual outlines the steps for conducting an on-scene traffic accident investigation.
Abstract
The opening chapter details the responsibilities of an investigator, personnel selection and training, objectives of an on-scene investigation, basic principles of traffic accident data collection, and equipment and other resources useful to the investigator. Subsequent chapters describe procedures of investigation, traffic accident analysis, and report preparation. Events which compose an accident and distinguish real accidents from those staged to defraud insurance companies or cover up other crimes are outlined. A step-by-step format is provided for planning traffic accident investigations; gathering information when an accident is reported; and proceeding to, arriving at, and leaving an accident scene. The human factor in traffic accidents is also discussed, followed by a description of the techniques for questioning drivers and witnesses. Environmental factors, such as adverse weather and/or road conditions, malfunctioning traffic control devices, and low visibility, which may be the primary cause of traffic accidents are examined. The chapter on highway and vehicle marks and damaged describes who to recognize, gather, intepret, and use such evidence as chips, gouges, striations, skid marks, yaw or side-slip marks, and debris in traffic accident analysis. Methods for determining vehicular motion and position before, during, and after impact are also detained. Included as well are discussions of vehicle mechanical inspection, photographs, investigation of a hit-and-run accident, sketches and diagrams, and speed estimates. Photographs, drawings, references, a bibliography, and an index are provided. (Author abstract modified)