Description

Objective Equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to respond to accidents effectively, conduct thorough and defensible investigations, meet regulatory reporting obligations, and implement corrective actions that prevent recurrence. Module Description This module delivers a comprehensive, end-to-end approach to accident management within commercial motor carrier operations. Participants learn how to manage accident scenes safely and professionally, guide drivers through immediate post-crash responsibilities, and conduct structured accident investigations that withstand regulatory, legal, and insurance scrutiny. Instruction emphasizes systematic evidence collection—including witness statements, photographs, vehicle and scene documentation, and ELD data—followed by disciplined root cause analysis using established investigative tools. Regulatory reporting requirements under FMCSA, OSHA, and insurance carrier standards are reviewed to ensure timely, accurate, and compliant reporting. Through scenario-based role play and collaborative workshops, participants practice moving from the initial accident notification through investigation, documentation, root cause determination, and the development of corrective and preventive action plans that support continuous safety improvement and CSA risk reduction. Topics Covered Immediate accident response protocols and scene management Driver responsibilities and post-accident actions Accident investigation techniques (interviews, photographs, ELD and data review) Root cause analysis methods (5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram) Regulatory reporting requirements (FMCSA, OSHA, insurance carriers) Corrective and preventive action planning Learning Activities Accident scenario role-play (from initial notification through root cause findings) Group workshop on drafting a complete accident investigation report Learning Objectives Describe and apply immediate accident response protocols Conduct structured accident investigations using multiple data sources Apply root cause analysis tools to identify underlying causes Complete required regulatory accident reports accurately and on time Required Resources / Readings FMCSA Accident Register Guidance OSHA Injury and Illness Reporting Guide (29 CFR 1904) National Transportation Safety Board accident investigation procedures (selected excerpts) Assessment Case study analysis: complete an accident investigation report Group exercise: identify root causes and propose corrective and preventive actions