Collision Investigation
PC 818 Rachel Carbery – Traffic Collision Unit
Causes of collisions
Rarely – mechanical defect
Distraction (for example kids, phone, radio)/ fatigue
Momentary lapse of concentration (thinking you see your friend or
having a conversation)
Misjudge distance and speed (coming to a junction and seeing a car in
the distance thinking you have enough time to get out, however that
car is going faster than what you think)
Inappropriate speed for the conditions
Role of a collision investigator
Lead agency in collision investigation
Primary duty is to investigate and establish the circumstances that
have led to a road death and life changing injuries
Provide an explanation to the family and friends of what has happened
(biggest part of the role)
Qualifications of a collision investigator
Minimum level is certificate of higher education
Currently being moved to FdSc and BSc (Hons) degree in forensic
collision investigation
Lancashire requirements:
Police officers
Advanced car drivers
Tac ops/ road policing experience
Vehicle examination qualifications – cars to HGV’s
What do we do?
Attend scenes of serious/ likely to prove and fatal road traffic collisions
Serious and fatal Police Vehicle Incidents
Vehicle examinations
Instant Data Recording downloads
Scan various scenes including murder scenes (using a 3D Scanner)
Industrial accidents
Comply reports for court cases (coroners court)
What is collision investigation?
We carry out a detailed examination of the scene
Analyse all the evidence to determine all the factors that resulted in
the collision occurring
Collision investigators are expected to remain impartial and to assist
the court
Not to act as prosecution witnesses
PC 818 Rachel Carbery – Traffic Collision Unit
Causes of collisions
Rarely – mechanical defect
Distraction (for example kids, phone, radio)/ fatigue
Momentary lapse of concentration (thinking you see your friend or
having a conversation)
Misjudge distance and speed (coming to a junction and seeing a car in
the distance thinking you have enough time to get out, however that
car is going faster than what you think)
Inappropriate speed for the conditions
Role of a collision investigator
Lead agency in collision investigation
Primary duty is to investigate and establish the circumstances that
have led to a road death and life changing injuries
Provide an explanation to the family and friends of what has happened
(biggest part of the role)
Qualifications of a collision investigator
Minimum level is certificate of higher education
Currently being moved to FdSc and BSc (Hons) degree in forensic
collision investigation
Lancashire requirements:
Police officers
Advanced car drivers
Tac ops/ road policing experience
Vehicle examination qualifications – cars to HGV’s
What do we do?
Attend scenes of serious/ likely to prove and fatal road traffic collisions
Serious and fatal Police Vehicle Incidents
Vehicle examinations
Instant Data Recording downloads
Scan various scenes including murder scenes (using a 3D Scanner)
Industrial accidents
Comply reports for court cases (coroners court)
What is collision investigation?
We carry out a detailed examination of the scene
Analyse all the evidence to determine all the factors that resulted in
the collision occurring
Collision investigators are expected to remain impartial and to assist
the court
Not to act as prosecution witnesses
