
Secure scene evidence early
Record the location, time, vehicle description, debris, property damage and sightlines. Identify nearby cameras, traffic signals, business records and witnesses. Seek medical care and preserve damaged items where safe. Do not enter a restricted accident scene or interfere with investigators.
Look beyond the aircraft itself
A ground event may raise questions about landing-site design, crowd control, maintenance, traffic management or operator decisions. A road-capable vehicle may also involve ordinary roadway evidence. Which duties apply depends on the vehicle, operation, location and jurisdiction.
Understand overlapping processes
Police, aviation investigators, local authorities and insurers may each collect different records. Reporting an injury to one agency does not automatically file a civil claim. Time limits differ by state and claim type, so a prompt jurisdiction-specific review is important.