What should an investigator do if they cannot determine fault at the scene?

When an investigator cannot determine fault at the scene of a traffic crash, the best course of action is to gather all available evidence and conduct a follow-up investigation. This approach is critical because determining fault is not always straightforward and may require more comprehensive analysis than what is available on-site.

Collecting evidence includes taking statements from all involved parties, obtaining witness accounts, documenting the physical scene through photographs, and gathering any relevant reports or statements from traffic cameras or other devices. This thorough approach ensures that the investigator has all the necessary information to assess the situation accurately later.

Additionally, follow-up investigations can involve analyzing data such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions, which can contribute to a clearer understanding of the events that led to the crash. By methodically compiling and analyzing evidence, the investigator can potentially reconstruct the crash scenario and arrive at a conclusion regarding fault, rather than prematurely labeling the incident as unresolvable.

Overall, this comprehensive strategy aligns with standard practices in traffic crash investigations and helps promote a more precise and fair resolution to the incident.