Documenting the Accident
The more accurate the information about the accident provided is, the easier it is to get at the root causes of the accident.
It is important that the accident investigator(s) be as objective as possible in gathering and evaluating data from the accident scene.
One of the biggest challenges facing an investigator is to determine what information is relevant. You want to gather data that will help you determine what happened, how it happened, and why it happened. Identifying items which answer these questions is the purpose of documenting the accident scene.
Accident Investigation Kit
The investigator will not be able to document the scene effectively unless they come fully prepared. That is why it is important to put together a well-stocked accident investigation kit before any incident occurs. This kit should be ready to go at all times and contain the tools needed to properly examine the scene, gather evidence, and record details.
The kit allows the investigator to work quickly and accurately, even in stressful or difficult conditions. Without the right equipment, important information could be missed, which may affect the outcome of the investigation and any follow-up actions.
Essential Items:
- Camera or smartphone for taking clear photos of the scene
- Measuring tape or wheel for recording distances
- Accident report forms and note pads
- Pens, pencils, and markers for writing and labeling
- Pre-printed witness statement forms
- Flashlight for low-light conditions
- Chalk or cones to mark vehicle positions
- First aid kit in case of minor injuries
- Personal protective gear such as gloves, safety vest, and hard hat
- Clipboard or folder to keep documents organized
Additional Helpful Items:
- Accident investigators checklist
- Sturdy gloves
- High visibility plastic tape to mark off area
- First aid kit
- Audio or video recorder with extra memory or tapes
- Identification tags
- Tape, bags, and specimen containers to secure items
- Compass for sketching the scene & identifying north
- Paint stick or chalk (yellow/black) to mark the scene
- Protractor to sketch the scene
- Tarp (to keep the scene and/or investigators dry)
- Investigators template (available online in varying styles)
- Personal protective equipment appropriate to your business
Keeping this kit ready ensures that the investigator is always prepared to respond quickly and handle the scene with care and professionalism.
Download a GSA SF91 - Motor Vehicle Accident (Crash) Report.
Download an Accident Investigation Guide with Sample Investigation Report.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-3. The more accurately the accident information is provided, the easier it is to get at _____.
You forgot to answer the question!