Sometimes, police officers offer opinions about a driver’s actions, but fault determination for an accident is a legal issue. Unless an officer witnesses an accident, their conclusions about fault are opinions. An officer’s primary task at an accident scene is to talk to drivers, vehicle occupants, and independent witnesses. They also make a formal record of the physical properties of an accident scene and the injuries. Sometimes, they photograph the scene.
Law enforcement officers make a formal report to document the evidence. They issue citations when they find evidence of a violation, and they arrest drivers who show signs of alcohol or drug use. Officers issue tickets for speeding, distracted driving, and other violations when the evidence supports these conclusions.