What are the key components of traffic accident investigation?

The key components of traffic accident investigation include scene safety, evidence collection, and witness interviews. Prioritizing scene safety ensures that officers can work effectively and protect themselves and others at the scene. Evidence collection involves gathering physical evidence such as skid marks, debris, and vehicle damage, which helps in understanding the circumstances of the accident. Witness interviews are crucial for obtaining firsthand accounts of the incident, which can provide context and details that might not be apparent from physical evidence alone.

The other options do not encompass the comprehensive approach required for thorough traffic accident investigations. Scribbling notes and filing reports, while necessary tasks, do not capture the essential investigative actions needed to analyze an accident effectively. Taking photographs and issuing tickets focus on documentation and enforcement rather than a structured investigation. Collecting personal information from drivers alone overlooks the broader scope of gathering evidence and witness statements, which are vital for reconstructing the incident accurately.