What should officers prioritize when responding to a traffic accident?

When responding to a traffic accident, the safety of all involved individuals is the top priority for officers. This focus on safety ensures that any potential hazards are addressed, that injured persons receive prompt medical care, and that further accidents are prevented at the scene. Officers will typically first secure the area to protect those involved and direct traffic to avoid additional collisions.

Addressing safety sets the groundwork for all other actions that follow in the response to an accident. While other tasks, such as documenting the scene, writing citations, or arranging for vehicle towing, are important aspects of investigating and managing the aftermath of an accident, they should not take precedence over ensuring the immediate safety and wellbeing of individuals involved in the incident.