The Columbia Police Department’s Civilian Collision Investigation Unit is a modern approach to public safety that improves service delivery while allowing sworn officers to remain available for priority calls for service. Specially trained civilian investigators respond to qualifying traffic collisions, conduct investigations, document crash scenes, and complete official reports with the same professionalism and attention to detail expected throughout the department. This innovative program increases operational efficiency, reduces response times, and provides timely service to motorists while maximizing patrol resources for emergency response.
Civilian Collision Investigation Team
Can civilian crash investigators arrest people or issue tickets at collisions?
No. Civilian crash investigators cannot arrest individuals or issue tickets. Their role is to document the collision scene, primarily for insurance purposes.
What types of collisions do civilian crash investigators handle?
They handle minor incidents like fender-benders, T-bone collisions, rear-endings, or other minor roadway blockages. However, they do not handle collisions involving fatalities, serious injuries, criminal offenses, or pursuits.
How are civilian crash investigators trained?
They receive extensive training similar to that of officers in collision reporting. However, their focus is on roadway safety, vehicle dynamics, and accurate report writing, without law enforcement powers like arrest or citation.
When do officers, EMS, or other first responders get involved?
If a collision involves serious injury, fire, criminal activity, or any other situation beyond minor vehicle damage, civilian investigators will request sworn officers or EMS to take over.