What should an officer do upon evaluating damage at a crash scene?

Upon evaluating damage at a crash scene, the primary responsibility of an officer is to ensure personal safety and the safety of others. This is crucial, as crash scenes can pose various hazards, including oncoming traffic, unstable vehicles, and debris. By prioritizing safety, the officer can effectively manage the scene, preventing further injury or damage.

In this context, the officer should first assess the situation and ensure that any involved individuals are safe, potentially directing traffic or moving vehicles if necessary. This foundational step allows for an organized response to the incident and paves the way for subsequent actions such as gathering information, documenting the scene, or calling for assistance.

Other actions, such as ticketing drivers or calling a tow truck, are important but should follow the assurance of safety. Leaving the scene to gather more information is not advisable, as it compromises both the officer's ability to manage the incident and the safety of those involved. Therefore, emphasizing safety is an essential aspect of an officer's protocol at a crash scene.