What is defined as a crash investigation?

A crash investigation is best defined as an in-depth examination of contributing factors to a crash. This process involves a thorough analysis of the circumstances surrounding an accident, including the vehicles involved, road conditions, driver behavior, and any mechanical issues.

The goal of a crash investigation is to understand how and why the crash occurred in order to prevent similar incidents in the future. Investigators will collect and analyze evidence, which may include physical evidence from the scene, vehicle damage assessments, and any relevant data such as traffic camera footage. This comprehensive approach allows law enforcement and safety officials to identify not just the immediate causes of the crash but also any underlying factors that may have contributed.

While collecting witness testimonies, assessing vehicle safety, or evaluating road conditions can be components of the overall investigation, they do not encompass the complete scope of what a crash investigation entails. These elements serve as data points within the broader context of understanding the crash itself. Therefore, the in-depth examination of contributing factors is the most accurate definition of a crash investigation.