Why are skid marks considered important evidence in a crash investigation?

Skid marks play a crucial role in crash investigations primarily because they provide valuable information about the speed and control of the vehicle leading up to the collision. When a vehicle skids, the friction between the tires and the road surface leaves visible marks which can be analyzed to determine the vehicle's speed at the time of braking. The distance and nature of the skid marks can help investigators calculate how fast the vehicle was traveling, which is essential for understanding the dynamics of the crash.

Furthermore, skid marks can indicate the maneuvering patterns of the vehicle before impact, such as whether the driver attempted to slow down or steer away from an obstacle. This aspect of the evidence can also provide insights into driver behavior and the vehicle's handling characteristics under various conditions. Overall, this information allows for a more comprehensive reconstruction of the crash and contributes significantly to the investigative process.