Training on Structured Crash Investigation using Root Cause Analysis Matrix (RCAM) for Haryana Police, April 2024

In 2022, the country reported a total of 4,61,312 road accidents, resulting in 1,68,491 fatalities and injuries to 4,43,366 individuals. To address this issue, it’s important to identify the causes and possible preventive actions for such accidents by collecting and analysing road crash information.

A comprehensive road crash investigation involves a scientific process that includes the collection, recording, analysis, and reporting of information. It goes beyond identifying the cause of an accident and delves into system failures, potential risks, and future accident prevention strategies.

In addition, the CoERS (Centre of Excellence for Road Safety) has introduced the Root Cause Analysis Matrix (RCAM) which adopts a data-driven systems approach to evaluate and identify the underlying causes of road traffic crashes, including institutional failures. By adopting this macroscopic perspective, stakeholders are empowered to make informed, data-driven decisions and effectively address the root causes of road crashes.

Recognising the need to train Officers to perform scientific road crash investigations, CoERS conducted a series of workshops on structured crash investigation using the RCAM. These workshops took place from April 8^th to April 20^th, 2024, in four batches. Batches 1 and 2 were held at the Commissioner’s Office in Panchkula, Haryana, while Batches 2 and 3 were conducted at the Haryana Police Academy in Madhuban, Haryana. Each batch consisted of three days of intensive training.

The workshops were attended by Traffic Police Officers and Investigation Officers (IO) from the Panchkula district of Haryana Police, as well as various traffic wings of the Haryana Police. The aim was to equip these officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct scientific crash investigations using the RCAM, thereby enhancing their ability to address road accidents effective