Safety Operations at Motor Vehicle Accidents

November 24, 2006

The main objective of pre-hospital care providers operating on the scene of motor vehicle accidents is to assess the patients and develop a treatment plan. While they may initially set-up a safe operating zone by placing the ambulance or flares to diminish traffic flow, Conditions may change when left unmonitored. Officers on field patrol should respond to motor vehicle accidents and perform a scene size-up and remain focused on the safety of the public safety personnel operating on the scene. Some of the tools available to control traffic are flares and the use of the highway riser light bar. Close as many lanes as necessary to ensure a safe working environment. Positioning of the Command Car behind the accident scene on a highway should occur with all emergency lights engaged.

As a reference Officers should review Operating Guide 107-01 with their respective crews.