Who investigates PBSO Vehicle crashes involving injury or complaint of injury?

• A. Internal Affairs
• B. VHI, Traffic Division, or sufficiently trained deputy authorized by traffic division
• C. Hazardous Materials Team
• D. Traffic Bureau only

Answer: (B)

The situation is handled by the traffic-focused investigative chain, with different units stepping in based on the specifics of the crash. Vehicle Homicide Investigation (VHI) covers crashes with fatalities or when the injury is severe or raises criminal questions. The Traffic Division conducts investigations of most crashes that involve injuries, determining factors, fault, and any potential charges. If a crash doesn’t meet VHI criteria or if additional manpower or expertise is needed, a deputy who is sufficiently trained and authorized by the Traffic Division can take the lead on the investigation. This arrangement ensures coverage for crashes with injury or injury complaints by using the appropriate specialized unit or an authorized traffic investigator.

Internal Affairs handles investigations into deputy misconduct, not crash investigations. The Hazardous Materials Team is for hazmat incidents, not typical vehicle crashes. Relying on the Traffic Bureau alone would omit the specialized VHI role and the option for a trained deputy to investigate, making it less complete.