Improved Data Through Improved Data

Collection

Major Bruce Davisson

Captain Scott Hernandez

Trooper Brian Lyons

Leslie Nelson-Taullie

Traffic Accident Investigation

For many years, the Colorado State Patrol was considered a leader in the technical investigation field.

In the 1980’s the CSP became the first state patrol agency to require all troopers to successfully complete Level-II Technical Accident Investigation Training.

The Challenge

Progressively, the Colorado State Patrol began being criticized for its lack of quality investigative reports by some prosecutors and the State Patrol’s credibility with the court system suffered.

More Challenges

Although troopers were trained in technical investigative skills these skills were not always being applied.

Was it caused by :

The lack of maintaining skills?Was it a case of “use it or lose it”?Were officers unable to maintain highly

technical skills?Due to lack of ability?Due to lack of interest?

Or was it caused by :

The lack of time?Was a lack of manpower resulting in:

Rushed investigations?Lack of available time for adequate follow up

investigations?A sense of being overwhelmed?

Or was it caused by :

The lack of equipment?The CSP had not kept pace with the many

technological advances related to accident reconstruction. Unfortunately, the use of these tools and products by the private investigators and insurance companies were often used against the CSP in court cases.

OR was it

Apathy ?The theory that traffic investigations are only for insurance companies.

The BIG Challenge

The Colorado State Patrol recognized the need to regain expertise in the technical accident investigation arena and reaffirm its commitment to this critical issue.

Thus increasing credibility with: The community The courts Other law enforcement agencies Accident victims

So what do we do?

Establish a system in which officers are receive accident reconstruction training and are able to utilize, maintain and further develop their skills and knowledge.Do we train ALL troopers?Do we train only a few statewide?Do we train a few in each District?

And -

Determine what affordable technology exists and is available to investigators. Acquire funding to provide investigators with the newest in technology as well as the training to use the equipment.State Operating Funds?Grant Programs?Partnerships with Private Industry?

ART Team Development

The decision was to develop six Accident Reconstruction Teams (ART) statewide. This provide one team per CSP District. Each Team comprised of 3 – 4 troopers based on

the number of Troops in the District. Minimum criteria standards were established for

entry level, and ultimate promotion levels for investigators.

ART Investigations

ALL accidents involving a fatality or felony charges. Including single-car single occupant

fatalities.

Additional considerations for:Emergency Vehicle AccidentsPublic Transportation AccidentsHigh profile media-type investigations.

Partnerships

Colorado Department of Public Safety – Division of Criminal Justice

Colorado District Attorneys Council

Colorado Coroners Association

Local Law Enforcement

The Benefits to Traffic Records

Accident Reconstructionists become less likely to pursue the simple or easiest answer and become more proactive in cause analysis.More detailed and accurate investigations provide for better crash data.