What should an officer not do when investigating a crash involving multiple vehicles?

When investigating a crash involving multiple vehicles, it is crucial for the officer to remain objective and refrain from making any immediate judgments about who is at fault. Assigning blame prematurely can compromise the investigation and lead to biases that may affect the collection of evidence and the statements of witnesses. The determination of fault should be based on a thorough examination of the facts, evidence, and applicable laws after all relevant information has been gathered.

The other actions, such as interviewing each driver, taking photographs of the scene, and recording witness statements, are all essential components of a comprehensive investigation. These activities help establish a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the crash, allowing the officer to accurately document the event and ultimately inform the process of determining liability later on. By focusing on collecting factual information rather than hastily assigning blame, the officer ensures a more fair and just analysis of the incident.