In the event of a motor vehicle collision, what investigative step is crucial?

Establishing the protocol for the investigation is a crucial step following a motor vehicle collision because it ensures that all necessary procedures are followed to conduct a thorough and effective investigation. This includes identifying the parties involved, securing the scene, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting the conditions of the accident. By having a structured protocol in place, investigators can ensure that critical information is not overlooked and that the investigation adheres to legal and professional standards.

In contrast, assuming liability is not an investigative step; it can compromise the objective nature of the investigation. Immediate evacuation of victims is a vital action for medical personnel, but it falls outside the scope of the investigative process itself. Reviewing vehicle insurance policies may become relevant later in the context of claims or legal proceedings but does not pertain directly to the immediate investigative steps required at the scene of a collision.