When should an officer use a crash report instead of a field interview?

An officer should use a crash report when there is property damage, injury, or death involved because these circumstances necessitate a formal documentation process that captures detailed information about the incident. Crash reports provide a structured way to collect and convey vital data, including the specifics of the accident, the parties involved, any injuries sustained, and damage incurred. This documentation is essential for legal and insurance purposes and helps in the resolution of claims related to the incident.

In cases with no injuries, a field interview may suffice since the situation may not warrant the comprehensive details required in a crash report. Also, the presence of a witness is not a determining factor for whether a crash report is needed; it is more about the severity and nature of the incident. Similarly, while driver requests can guide officers, they do not determine the need for a crash report, which is based on the specifics of the incident itself.