Why might an officer reference accident statistics in their report?

Referencing accident statistics in a report serves to provide context for unsafe conditions or behaviors observed at the scene of the incident. By including relevant statistics, the officer can highlight underlying trends or patterns that may have contributed to the accident, such as increased accident rates at a specific location or specific types of accidents that frequently occur in certain weather conditions. This data can help to illustrate the potential risks and justify any recommendations for preventative measures or changes needed to enhance safety in the future. It provides a factual basis for the conclusions drawn in the report, strengthening the overall narrative and ensuring that the information presented is grounded in evidence, rather than opinion.