What is the role of diagrams in crash investigation reports?

Diagrams play a crucial role in crash investigation reports by visually representing the layout of the crash scene. This visual representation helps investigators convey complex spatial relationships, the position of vehicles involved, and the overall context of the incident, which is often difficult to describe in words alone. Diagrams can illustrate key factors such as the angles of impact, the location of debris, traffic control devices, and roadway features that are relevant to understanding how the crash occurred. This visual aid enhances the clarity of the report and allows all parties involved—such as law enforcement, insurance companies, and courts—to better grasp the circumstances surrounding the crash.

In contrast, while narrative descriptions and witness statements provide important qualitative insight into the events that transpired, they lack the ability to depict the physical configuration of the scene visually. Similarly, measuring speed limits pertains to a different aspect of the investigation that does not directly relate to the visual representation of the scene itself. Thus, diagrams serve as an essential tool in accurately documenting and interpreting the facts of a traffic crash.