Road traffic accident investigators, or collision investigators, conduct detailed investigations into road traffic accidents, either in traffic units for the police force or on behalf of insurance companies or legal firms. They analyse events leading up to an accident and diagnose possible causes.

Their work involves collecting information by liaising with the police, obtaining witness statements and examining scene photographs. Investigators then produce scale plans and reconstruct accidents using computers, calculating contributing factors such as momentum and speed.

The information gathered is used to produce accident reports and expert witness reports for judicial and civil courts and tribunals.

Hours and Environment

There are no set hours for this type of work. Accident investigators working on a self-employed/consultancy basis work the hours an assignment demands. The work is often part-time.

Road traffic accident investigators working in the police force may work shifts and be on an on-call rota.

Investigators work outside in all weathers when gathering information from an accident scene. They also work in an office environment when compiling reports.

Skills and Interests

To be a road traffic accident investigator you should:

• have an inquiring mind
• have a methodical approach
• be able to work alone
• be able to pay attention to detail
• have strong communication skills
• have numerical ability.

Entry

Self employed investigators should hold a professional qualification in accident investigation.

There are no formal entry requirements. However, many of the relevant courses will require you to have attained GCSEs (A-C)/ S grades (1-3) in maths and physics, or equivalent. Experience in related areas such as the emergency services is useful.

Ai Training Services Ltd offer a Professional Development Certificate in Forensic Collision Investigation accredited by DeMontfort University and approved by the Institute of Traffic Accident Investigators. The course is studied by distance learning with one week residential. See the Ai Training website in Further Information for more details.

Other courses are available leading to certificates and diplomas in Road Traffic Investigation. These are aimed at people wanting to gain entry into this type of work and tend to be offered by private training providers. It is important to check that courses are approved by a recognised awarding body or institution.

The police force have both police officers (see Police Constable profile) and civilians employed in collision investigation. New entrants would work within a road policing department and gain a qualification while in post.

Training

Investigators working in the police force work towards a City and Guilds qualification in Forensic Collision Investigation. This qualification is only available for the police.

Further specialised courses are available such as tachograph analysis and vehicle examination.

The Institute of Traffic Accident Investigators provides a continuing professional development (CPD) scheme for its members. They are required to undertake a minimum of 18 hours CPD each year (see website in Further Information for more details).

Opportunities

Road traffic investigators are employed in road traffic investigation units within the police force. There are also opportunities to work on a freelance or consultancy basis.

Self-employed investigators may undertake investigations on behalf of local authorities, insurance companies and legal firms.

There may be the opportunities to work in road safety consultancy.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Those working in the police force are paid in accordance with police salary scales.
Police constables usually earn between £20,000 and £30,000 a year.

Road traffic accident investigators working on a freelance or consultancy basis charge by the hour. This can range from £30 to over £100 an hour.

Further information