What condition should an officer assess when determining whether to report a traffic crash?

An officer must assess the condition of the incident as stable or unstable to properly determine whether reporting a traffic crash is necessary. An unstable situation often indicates that there may be ongoing hazards or risks that need immediate attention, such as a traffic hazard or potential for further accidents. This includes scenarios where vehicles are in the roadway, traffic flow is obstructed, or there are environmental factors affecting safety. Reporting in such cases ensures that appropriate measures are taken to manage the situation, provide necessary assistance, and mitigate the risk of further incidents.

In contrast, if an incident is stable, meaning there are no immediate hazards or risks, the need for a formal report may be less critical. Assessing the presence of property damage or injuries, while relevant, does not alone determine the necessity of reporting a crash. The decision hinges more on the stability of the situation at the scene, ensuring that the safety of all parties involved and the general public is prioritized.