What is the primary purpose of a traffic crash investigation?

The primary purpose of a traffic crash investigation revolves around determining the cause of the crash and gathering relevant facts that can be used for legal and insurance purposes. Investigators aim to piece together the circumstances surrounding the incident, which includes collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting the scene. This thorough examination helps establish liability and can influence insurance claims, liability disputes, and any subsequent legal proceedings.

While issuing citations to drivers, providing traffic control, and investigating potential criminal activity are important functions in certain contexts, they are not the central focus of most traffic crash investigations. Instead, these actions arise as secondary components of the investigation, contingent on findings that might suggest the need for enforcement or further scrutiny. Understanding the main objective as gathering facts for legal accountability emphasizes the analytical nature of such investigations, ensuring that all details are documented effectively for potential future use.