Traffic Accident Investigator

Responsibilities

• Responds to traffic accidents with fatalities; advises drivers of their constitutional rights; takes taped statements from drivers and witnesses; notifies next of kin of deceased.
• Attends autopsies when necessary; consults with medical examiner about matters relating to or causing the traffic fatality.
• Responds to traffic accidents and requests any additional assistance such as tow-trucks, emergency medical assistance, etc.; may direct traffic.
• Photographs traffic accidents and accident vehicles; gathers principal evidence, interviews drivers, witnesses and passengers; determines conditions leading up to accident; conducts tests to estimate speed of vehicles at time of accident.
• Verifies driver license and vehicle registration via radio with Records/Teletype Division; calls for sworn officer assistance when police powers are necessary.
• Performs vehicle inspections; performs download of Event Data Recorder (black box).
• Secures crash scene and preserves evidence collected for investigation of the accident.
• Conducts interviews with accident victims in the hospital; issues traffic citations.
• Conducts follow-up on hit and run accident investigations.
• Completes written accident reports; testifies in matters brought before the court.
• Consults with and provides information and assistance regarding accidents or traffic homicide investigations to Police Officers, other Accident Investigators, other police personnel, news media, and the general public.
• Collections Latent Prints and DNA samples.
• Prepares search and arrest warrants for Judge to sign.
• Prepares Subpoena Duces Tecum to obtain medical records.
• Initiates and participates in field training programs for Hit and Run Accident and Homicide Investigators; conducts formal on-the-job training in accident investigation techniques.
• Collaborates with other law enforcement personnel, forensic experts, legal professionals, and community stakeholders involved in accident investigations.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of sworn law enforcement experience with at least five (5) years of relevant investigative work experienced (ie: in the class of Detective, Investigator or similar title).
• Experience, and/or training that provides the required knowledge and abilities may be substituted for the degree.
• Minimum of two (2) years of relevant traffic accident reconstructive experience.
• Strong knowledge of investigative procedures, evidence collection techniques, and legal principles applicable to criminal investigations.
• Proficiency with traffic accident reconstruction tools and software.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Proficient in accident reconstruction principles, including physics, engineering, and biomechanics related to motor vehicle collisions.
• Familiarity with forensic techniques and methodologies used in investigating traffic accidents, such as vehicle examination, skid marks analysis, and digital data retrieval from vehicles.
• Solid understanding of legal procedures and protocols related to traffic accident investigations, including evidence collection, chain of custody, and courtroom testimony.
• Basic understanding of medical terminology and injury mechanisms to assess injuries sustained in traffic accidents.
• Knowledge of traffic safety principles and strategies to prevent accidents, including road design, signage, and traffic control devices.
• Ability to manage traffic accident scenes effectively, including securing the area, documenting evidence, and ensuring the safety of personnel and bystanders.
• Ability to conduct interviews and interrogations with witnesses, drivers, and other involved parties to gather relevant information and evidence.
• Ability to analyze data from various sources, such as witness statements, vehicle black boxes, surveillance footage, and physical evidence, to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the accident.
• Strong attention to detail to accurately document evidence, measurements, and observations at accident scenes.
• Ability to think critically and analytically to identify causal factors, contributing circumstances, and potential violations of traffic laws related to an accident.
• Comprehensive knowledge of local, state, and federal traffic laws and regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to report findings, present evidence, and testify in court proceedings.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with other law enforcement personnel, forensic experts, legal professionals, and community stakeholders involved in accident investigations.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and environments during accident investigations, including adverse weather conditions, nighttime operations, and high-stress situations.
• Willingness to pursue relevant certifications, attend training seminars, and participate in professional organizations to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development to stay abreast of emerging technologies, forensic methodologies, and legal developments in the field of Traffic Accident investigations.