J.4 NHTSA Digital Photography Protocols.pdf

Photography

Protocol

NHTSA

Field

Crash

Investigations

Edition

U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Crash Investigation Division National Center for Statistics and Analysis Washington, DC 20590

For NHTSA Field Crash Investigation use only – distribution not authorized.

NHTSA Field

Crash Investigations

U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Crash Investigation Division National Center for Statistics and Analysis Washington, DC 20590

Table of Contents

Introduction

Scene Photography Overview Standard Scene Photography Evidence Present Rollover Fixed Object Photography Guardrail End Guardrail Face

Vehicle Exterior Photography Overview Standard Exterior Photography Front Impact Back Impact Right Impact Left Impact Rollover Fully Repaired Fuel Systems Fire

Vehicle Interior Photography Overview Standard Interior Photography Air Bags Crash Avoidance Event Data Recorder Child Restraints

Appendix Guidelines for Sanitization Guidelines for Graphic and Outside Source Images

Introduction

The Digital Photography Protocol was developed to provide a reference for the NHTSA field Crash Technicians/Investigators taking digital images during scene and vehicle inspections. The images provided in the case are the only visual reference for the case reviewer, NHTSA, and ultimately the data user. Consequently, the images must be complete, concise, and as uniform as possible.

This document is designed to:

• Assist in obtaining the minimum acceptable number of images to report crash data. Be aware that there are many unusual or special circumstances that will require additional images.

• Detail a methodology to obtain all required views efficiently and effectively.

Standard images are numbered and have framing parameters as well as a content description.

Section 1 “Scene Photography” contains general instructions regarding crash scene photography from the vehicle’s pre-impact travel path to the final rest position. The standard images cover the core photography required for each vehicle’s movement.

Additional images are required for adequate coverage of physical evidence, multiple impacts, and struck objects. These images appear in red on the related figures.

Section 2 “Vehicle Photography” contains specific instructions regarding front, rear, and side impacts, and rollovers for both exterior and interior images. The standard images cover the core photography required for each damaged vehicle. Additional images are required for adequate coverage of multiple impacts, rollovers, and fuel system or fire damage. These images appear in red on the related figures.

Subject-specific close-up images will be necessary to document certain items. Mid-range images should be taken to show the perspective of the close-up and the location of the subject.

The cameras selected for field investigations are equipped with an LCD monitor, allowing the opportunity to preview the images before leaving the inspection site. Use of the monitor is strongly recommended to ensure quality photographic documentation. The standard setting for digital images is M2. To ensure adequate detail and manageable file size, capture case images as close as possible to this setting. When taking close-ups in the macro setting, turn the flash off.

There may be times when a photograph’s subject is best documented by rotating the camera; it is important to understand the framing and content of each required photo to obtain the best documentation possible.

Adjust stance

Scene Photography

Overview

Crash scene photography should depict each involved vehicle's pre-impact path of travel (prior to the critical event), point of impact, post-impact trajectory, and final rest. Obtain additional images along the vehicle's post-impact trajectory when a substantial distance is travelled from impact to final rest. In general, each pre-impact image should portray the driver's perspective. It is important to take a stance that allows the camera level to be at the approximate level of driver's view as illustrated in Figure 1. Point of impact and final rest images should be taken from a standing position to better capture physical evidence.

For the pre-impact path of travel, photographs should capture five seconds of the precrash scene prior to the first harmful event. To determine the appropriate distance for the first precrash photo, estimate the vehicle travel speed from the police report or posted speed limit. Locate the speed on the chart shown in Figure 2. For example, on a 55 MPH roadway a vehicle travels roughly 24 meters per second. To capture five seconds of precrash travel, the images would start 120 meters from the first harmful event (5 seconds x 24 meters per second).

Images must also include all physical evidence and applicable traffic control devices. The procedures for photographing scenes with and without physical evidence follow.

As stated above, pre-impact images capture what the driver’s perspective would have been leading up to impact. Post-impact, follow the center of gravity of the vehicle for all scene images related to that vehicle’s path of travel. If a vehicle is rotating or rolling, follow the travel path of the center of gravity, NOT the driver’s view.

There may be images in shadowed areas that are best captured with the flash activated. In rainy or snowy conditions, using the flash may create glare. Check images on the camera monitor to ensure proper adaptation to environmental conditions.

FIGURE 1:

Scope of Vision

FIGURE 2:

Miles per hour to meters per second

Standard Scene Photography

For each in-transport vehicle involved in a crash, 8 common images form the minimum requirement for photographic documentation. These images are obtained for vehicle to vehicle, vehicle to object, and rollover type crashes. To this photography core, additional photographs will be added to capture physical evidence, roadway departures, additional events, struck objects, struck guardrails, or any number of other subjects necessary to fully document the crash scene. Figure 3 illustrates a two-vehicle crash and depicts the standard images required only for Vehicle 1. A similar set of photographs would be required for Vehicle 2 in this example.

Image 1-3: Vehicle Approach

Framing:

Left: Precrash environment; adjacent or opposite travel lanes Right: Precrash environment; adjacent travel lanes and road edge Top: Roughly one third horizon Bottom: Precrash roadway surface

Image includes:

Images capture approximately 5 seconds of precrash travel prior to the first harmful event. These images should capture roadway lane lines, medians, roadway edges, shoulders, relevant traffic control devices and regulatory signs.

Additional approach images may be required for complex scenes, sweeping curves, hills, etc.

Categorization:

Vehicle (n) / Approach 1, Approach 2, Approach 3, Approach # (if needed)

FIGURE 3:

Standard Scene Images

Image 4: Impact

Left: Environment left of the vehicle’s position at impact Right: Environment right of the vehicle’s position at impact Top: Environment above the vehicle’s position at impact Bottom: Travel surface at the point of impact

Image captures the vehicle’s location at the point of impact. This image should be taken approximately 3 meters prior to the point of impact. If numerous vehicles or objects are struck between the initial point of impact and the final rest position, images at the point of impact for each event should be taken.

Vehicle (n) / Impact

Image 5: Final Rest

Left: Environment left of the vehicle’s position at final rest Right: Environment right of the vehicle’s position at final rest Top: Environment above the vehicle’s position at final rest Bottom: Final rest surface just below the vehicle’s position at final rest

Image captures the vehicle’s location at final rest.

Vehicle (n) / Final Rest

Image 6: Lookback at Final Rest

Left: Look back at environment left of the vehicle’s position at final rest Right: Look back at environment right of the vehicle’s position at final rest Top: Look back at environment above the vehicle’s position at final rest Bottom: Look back at surface just below the vehicle’s position at final rest

Lookback of the vehicle’s location at the point of final rest (opposite view of image 5). This view should be taken approximately 3 meters past the final rest position looking back at the vehicle's trajectory and should include the final rest position.

Vehicle (n) / Lookback at Final Rest

Image 7: Lookback at Impact

Left: Look back at environment left the vehicle’s position at impact Right: Look back at environment right of the vehicle’s position at impact Top: Look back at environment above the vehicle’s position at impact Bottom: Look back at travel surface at the point of impact

Image captures a lookback of the vehicle’s location at the point of impact (opposite view of image 4). If numerous vehicles or objects are struck between the initial point of impact and the final rest position, look-backs at the point of impact for each event should be taken.

Vehicle (n) / Lookback at Impact

Image 8: Lookback at Path of Travel

Left: Look back at precrash environment; adjacent travel lanes, road edge Right: Look back at precrash environment; adjacent or opposite travel lanes

Bottom: Look back at precrash roadway surface

Image captures a lookback of the vehicle’s path of travel leading up to the first harmful event (opposite view of images 1-3); a single image is taken from the area of the first harmful event and shows the precrash environment.

Vehicle (n) / Lookback at Path of Travel

Physical Evidence

When physical evidence such as skid marks are present, images showing the extent of the evidence are required. The last of the approach images should contain the beginning of physical evidence in the initial impact area. Physical evidence is categorized under “Crash / Vehicle (n) / Specify Evidence”. Several images may be necessary to capture lengthy evidence; these images should be obtained by standing in an upright position (Figure 4a). Begin approximately 5 meters from the beginning of the evidence and continue forward at close intervals (generally 6-8 meters), following the vehicle’s estimated Center of Gravity (CG) travel path (Figure 4b). Greater intervals are acceptable for lengthy scenes where minimal variation in the evidence (i.e. slight yawing) is present. Closer intervals may be required for complex scenes. Frame each image to ensure all possible evidence is visible and that the images overlap, allowing for a continuous sequence.

Include close-up views of noteworthy evidence such as roadway gouges, tire marks, and fluid spills. An overview image may be necessary to provide visual perspective of the evidence (relation to a lane line, sign, road edge, etc.) and should be taken from the same general direction as the close-up image. All relevant evidence should be marked with spray chalk, using caution not to cover or obscure the evidence.

FIGURE 4a:

Physical Evidence

FIGURE 4b:

Physical Evidence TM

TM

Rollover

In cases where a vehicle rolls over on the road or departs the roadway and subsequently rolls over, the standard scene images are required. In addition:

For on-road rollovers photographic coverage should include:

• Pre-roll trajectory

• Trip point or rollover initiation area

• Path to final rest

• Look-back from final rest

• Look-back from trip point

For rollovers off-road, photographic coverage should include:

• Pre-roll trajectory

• Location of road departure

• Trip point or rollover initiation area

• Path to final rest

• Look-back at final rest

• Look-back at trip point

• Look-back at road departure

Photograph both the trip point/roll initiation area and the final rest area, when possible in a single image. Otherwise use multiple overlapping images. All relevant evidence - gouges, scrapes, furrows, and debris - should be marked with spray chalk. For rollover events involving circumstances such as control loss or roadside departure, it may be necessary to begin taking images earlier in the pre-crash sequence. It is important to capture the approximate location of control loss or any characteristics of the physical plant that may have contributed to the crash.

If the vehicle experienced an interrupted roll, images should be obtained showing the object impacted and a lookback at the object impacted as described in the Fixed Object Struck section.

Fixed Object Photography

For impacts involving a roadside fixed object(s), the photographic coverage must include the pre-impact trajectory, the point of road departure, an overview of the impact area, and close-up images of object(s) impacted with a reference scale included. Additional physical evidence and final rest positions should be photographed as outlined previously.

Following the vehicle’s path of approach, obtain an overview image for each impact area, followed by close-up images for each roadside object struck. Close-up views are required and should be taken from the same angle as the overview image. If numerous objects were struck, look-backs from each struck object should also be obtained. If the object struck is a small cluster of trees or other closely positioned objects, one look-back image is adequate. The image requirements in Figures 5, 6 and 7 depict a right-side road departure; in the case of a left-side road departure, the images would mirror those taken for a right-side departure.

First Object Struck

In addition to the standard scene images, the first fixed object struck (FOS) requires additional images showing the relationship of the road and FOS, both parallel and perpendicular to the road.

FIGURE 5:

First Object Struck Struck pole

Image 9: Road Departure

Left: Environment left of the vehicle’s position at road departure Right: Environment right of the vehicle’s position at road departure Top: Environment above the vehicle’s position at road departure Bottom: Travel surface at the location of road departure

Captures the location where the vehicle departed the road edge, taken from the roadway along the vehicle’s travel path.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Road Departure

Image 10: First Object Struck from Road

Framing: See “Image Includes”

Photograph showing the perpendicular relationship of the struck object to the road.

This image captures the area between the edge of the road to the struck object.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / FOS from Road

Image 11: First Object Struck from Road Close-up

Close-up view of the struck object (with reference scale in place) taken in the same direction as image 10. The entire extent of damage to the object should be visible.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / FOS from Road Close-up

Image 12: First Object Struck toward Road

Framing: See “Image Includes”:

Image of the perpendicular relationship of the struck object to the road, taken from a position opposite of image 10. Capture the struck object in a view toward road.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / FOS toward Road

Image 13: First Object Struck toward Road Close-up

Close-up view of the struck object taken in the same direction as image 12.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / FOS toward Road Close-up

Image 14: Lookback from Roadside

Left: First object struck Right: Edge of road that was departed

Bottom: Road edge and roadside surface in area of struck object

Image showing the struck object’s parallel relationship to the road. Image is taken parallel to the road so that both the struck object and the road edge are visible; the farther the object is off the road, the further away the image will need to be taken to capture both the struck object and the road edge.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Lookback from Roadside

Image 15: Lookback from Shoulder

Left: First object struck Right: Road edge and adjacent travel lane

Bottom: Surface of roadside, shoulder, and adjacent travel lane

Lookback image showing the road edge, taken in the direction of the point of road departure. This image is captured 30 meters past the struck object.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Lookback from Shoulder

Guardrail End Struck

Although a guardrail is a fixed object, it requires further photographic coverage than other struck objects. These images are illustrated in Figure 6 and are required any time a guardrail end is struck – it does not have to be the first object struck. The undamaged component locations in Figure 6 are indicated by solid-filled shapes. These images must include:

• Image of the guardrail end

• Overhead views of all damaged and missing posts

Right: Environment right of the vehicle’s position at road departure

Captures the location where the vehicle departed the road edge, taken form the roadway in the path toward the struck object.

FIGURE 6:

Guardrail End Struck

Image 10: Guardrail Damage from Traffic Side

Left: First two undamaged posts after the guardrail damage Right: Guardrail end or precrash location of the guardrail end Top: Determined by length of damage Bottom: Edge of road and surface beneath the guardrail

Obtain overview image(s) of the entire damaged area of the guardrail, taken from the road toward the guardrail. This image should cover from the guardrail end to the first two undamaged posts – and may require several images.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Guardrail Damage from Traffic Side

Image 11: None for Guardrail End

Image 12: Guardrail Damage from Field Side

Left: Guardrail end or precrash location of guardrail end Right: First two undamaged posts after the guardrail damage

Bottom: Edge of road and surface beneath the guardrail the field side of the guardrail. This image should cover from the guardrail end to the first two undamaged posts – and may require several images.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Guardrail Damage from Field Side

Image 13: None for Guardrail End Struck

Left: Two undamaged posts, traffic side of damaged guardrail, point of impact Right: Edge of road that was departed

Bottom: Road edge, roadside surface just before and along the rail damage

The location of this image is determined by finding the first two posts NOT damaged by the impact (indicated by the black squares in Figure 6). With the undamaged posts visible in the image, take a photograph parallel to the guardrail from the traffic side, looking back toward the point of impact.

Left: Traffic side of struck guardrail Right: Road edge and adjacent travel lane

Lookback image showing the road edge, taken in the opposite direction of the point of road departure. This image is captured approximately 30 meters past the struck guardrail.

Image 16: Overhead of Damaged Guardrail Posts

Left: Last damaged posts of the guardrail Right: First damaged posts of the guardrail (captured two per image) Top: Edge of field side of guardrail Bottom: Edge of traffic side of guardrail

Overhead views of the damaged posts showing the numbers painted on the ground. Do not use the monopod; from a standing position, capture two posts in each image until all damaged posts are captured. If posts are missing, indicate number on the ground and use the area where the post was located. If the posts have been repaired or replaced, photograph the new or repaired posts.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Overhead Posts (#)

Image 17: Face of Guardrail End

Left: Left edge of the guardrail end Right: Right edge of the guardrail end Top: Top edge of the guardrail end Bottom: Bottom edge of the guardrail end

Photograph the face of guardrail end in its damaged location; several images may be needed if the end sustained extensive damage. If the guardrail impact end has already been repaired or replaced, take the image of the repaired end. The face of the guardrail end often has black and yellow diagonal stripes.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Face of Guardrail End

Image 18: Back of Guardrail End

Left: Field side of the guardrail end Right: Traffic side of the guardrail end Top: Top edge of the guardrail end Bottom: Bottom edge of the guardrail end

Back of the guardrail end, taken opposite of image 17. Capture from the point where the rail attaches to the end structure, to the rear side of the guardrail face.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Back of Guardrail End

Image 19: Traffic Side of Guardrail End

Left: End of the traffic side of the guardrail end Right: Beginning of the traffic side of the guardrail end Top: Top of the traffic side of the guardrail end Bottom: Bottom of the traffic side of the guardrail end

View of the guardrail end from the traffic side. If the end has been repaired or replaced, take an image of the traffic side of the repaired end.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Traffic Side of Guardrail End

Image 20: Field Side of Guardrail End

Left: Beginning of the field side of the guardrail end Right: End of the field side of the guardrail end Top: Top of the field side of the guardrail end Bottom: Bottom of the field side of the guardrail end

View of the guardrail end from the field side. If the end has been repaired or replaced, take an image of the field side of the repaired end.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Field Side of Guardrail end

Guardrail Face Struck

Although a guardrail is a fixed object, it requires further photographic coverage than other struck objects. These images illustrated in Figure 7 and are required any time a guardrail face is struck – it does not have to be the first object struck.

The undamaged component locations in Figure 7 are indicated by solid-filled shapes. These images must include:

• Image(s) of the damage to the guardrail face

• Overhead views of all damaged and missing posts

Right: Environment right of the vehicle’s position at road departure

Captures the location where the vehicle departed the road edge, taken form the roadway in the path toward the struck object.

FIGURE 7:

Guardrail Face Struck damaged posts

Image 10: Guardrail Damage from Traffic Side

Left: End of traffic side guardrail damage and next two undamaged posts Right: Beginning of traffic side guardrail damage and next two undamaged posts

Bottom: Edge of road, bottom of posts, and the surface beneath the guardrail

Overview image of the entire damaged area of the guardrail, taken from the traffic side of the guardrail. This image should cover from the first point of impact, along the rail to the first two undamaged posts – may require several images.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Guardrail Damage from Traffic Side

Image 11: None for Guardrail Face Struck

Image 12: Guardrail Damage from Field Side

Left: Beginning of field side guardrail damage, next two undamaged post Right: End of field side of guardrail damage, next two undamaged posts

Bottom: Edge of road, bottom of posts, and the surface beneath the guardrail the field side of the guardrail. Image should cover from the first point of impact, along the rail to the first two undamaged posts – and may require several images.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Guardrail Damage from Field Side

Image 13: None for Guardrail Face Struck

Left: Two undamaged posts, damaged guardrail, point of impact Right: Edge of road that was departed

Bottom: Road edge, roadside surface just before and along the rail damage

The location of this image is determined by finding the first two posts NOT damaged by the impact (indicated by the black squares in Figure 7). With the undamaged posts visible in the image, take a photograph parallel to the traffic side of guardrail looking back toward the point of impact.

Left: Traffic side of struck guardrail Right: Road edge and adjacent travel lane

Lookback image showing the road edge, taken in the direction of the point of road departure. This image is captured approximately 30 meters past the struck object.

Image 16: Overhead of Damaged Guardrail Posts

Left: Last damaged posts of the guardrail Right: First damaged posts of the guardrail (captured two per image) Top: Edge of field side of guardrail Bottom: Edge of traffic side of guardrail

Overhead views of the damaged posts showing the numbers painted on the ground. Do not use the monopod; from a standing position, capture two posts in each image until all damaged posts are captured. If posts are missing, indicate number on the ground and use the area where the post was located. If the posts have been repaired or replaced, photograph the new or repaired posts.

Crash / Vehicle (n) / Overhead Posts (#)

Vehicle Photography

Exterior Photography Overview

Vehicle exterior photography emphasizes a systematic approach to documenting the exterior of a vehicle to ensure all required images are obtained. Begin by obtaining the common images shown in Figure 8; to this photography core, additional photographs will be added to capture plane-specific vehicle damage. All views should be taken at the damage level (beltline area) unless otherwise specified.

The flash should be activated on all exterior images to help eliminate shadows, glare, etc.

When a crush profile will be completed for an impact, a reference scale should be placed on the ground perpendicular to the center of the damaged plane; another should be placed vertically against the vehicle near the damage, but without being an obstruction. The reference scales and crush markers should be left in place for all images.

A full view of the entire damaged pattern should be taken showing the direct and induced damage. The image should include a vertical reference scale against the damaged area, a reference scale on the ground perpendicular to the center point of the damaged plane, and visual markers affixed to the damaged area. Ensure that the direct damage width is identified by green markers and that the evidence of direct damage is clearly visible in the views. Use close-up images as needed.

If a second set of measurements is required for crush averaging, ensure that crush and damage markers appear at both damage levels measured (bumper and upper radiator support, mid-door and sill, etc.).

If this vehicle's bumper overrode a vehicle or object, in addition to the standing image, take another view from a kneeling position to ensure capture of any damage below the bumper.

If crush measurements are not required due to corner/sideswipe damage (S or E in CDC column 6), complete the standard images shown in Figure 8 (only the green direct damage markers should be present in these images). In addition, obtain close-up images showing:

• The undeformed frame rail end, if visible

• Green damage markers placed at the beginning and end of the direct damage

• A tape measurer extended between the green damage markers, showing the direct damage width does not exceed 41 cm.

Standard Exterior Photography

4 8 6

7 5

3a

3b

9a

9b

FIGURE 8:

Standard Exterior Images

Image 1: Front Plane

Left: Right front bumper corner Right: Left front bumper corner Top: Front roof line Bottom: Lowest frontal component

Entire front plane of vehicle; include crush/damage markers and reference scales, if FRONT plane impact.

Vehicle (n) / Front Plane

Image 2: Front Right Oblique

Left: Right rear bumper corner Right: Left front bumper corner Top: Front and right roof lines Bottom: Lowest frontal component and right side tires

Oblique view of the front and right planes; include crush/damage markers and reference scales if FRONT or RIGHT impact.

Vehicle (n) / Front Right Oblique

Image 3: Right Plane

Right: Right front bumper corner Top: Right roof line Bottom: Right side tires

Image of the right plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales, if RIGHT impact. Can be divided into several overlapping images if entire plane does not fit in single image.

Vehicle (n) / Right Plane

Image 3a: Right Front Tire

Tire-level view of the right front tire showing condition, any damage (with reference scale), tire identification number (TIN), manufacturer, model, and size. Include an indicator (chalk, label) to identify it as “RF”. Additional close-ups are required for tire damage or if tire labeling and TIN are not visible in the overview.

Vehicle (n) / Right Front Tire

Image 3b: Right Rear Tire

Tire-level view of the right rear tire showing condition, any damage (with reference scale), tire identification number (TIN), manufacturer, model, and size. Include an indicator (chalk, label) to identify it as “RR”. Additional close-ups are required for

Vehicle (n) / Right Rear Tire

Image 4: Back Right Oblique

Left: Left rear bumper corner Right: Right front bumper corner Top: Back and right roof lines Bottom: Lowest back plane component and right side tires

Oblique view of the back and right planes; include crush/damage markers and reference scales if BACK or RIGHT impact.

Vehicle (n) / Back Right Oblique

Image 5: Back Along Right Side

Left: Roughly one-third of the vehicle, determined by right plane framing Right: Length of right side from back plane, facing forward

Bottom: Lowest back plane component

A view from the back plane, sighting along the right side of the vehicle; designed to capture lateral shift of components. Often best taken by rotating the camera clockwise to better fill frame.

Vehicle (n) / Back Along Right Side

Image 6: Back Plane

Right: Right rear bumper corner Top: Back roof line Bottom: Lowest back-plane component

Entire back plane of vehicle; include crush/damage markers and reference scales, if BACK plane impact.

Vehicle (n) / Back Plane

Image 7: Back Along Left Side

Left: Length of left side from back plane, facing forward Right: Roughly one-third of the vehicle, determined by left plane framing Top: Left roof line Bottom: Lowest back plane component

A view from the back plane, sighting along the left side of the vehicle; designed to counter clockwise to better fill frame.

Vehicle (n) / Back Along Left Side

Image 8: Back Left Oblique

Left: Left front bumper corner Right: Right rear bumper corner Top: Back and left roof lines Bottom: Lowest back plane component and left side tires

Oblique view of the back and left planes; include crush/damage markers and reference scales if BACK or LEFT impact.

Vehicle (n) / Back Left Oblique

Image 9: Left Plane

Right: Left rear bumper corner

Bottom: Left side tires

Image of the left plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales, if LEFT impact. Can be divided into several overlapping images if entire plane does not fit in single image.

Vehicle (n) / Left Plane

Image 9a: Left Front Tire

Tire-level view of the left front tire showing condition, any damage (with reference scale), tire identification number (TIN), manufacturer, model, and size. Include an indicator (chalk, label) to identify it as “LF”. Additional close-ups are required for

Vehicle (n) / Left Front Tire

Image 9b: Left Rear Tire

Tire-level view of the left rear tire showing condition, any damage (with reference scale), tire identification number (TIN), manufacturer, model, and size. Include an indicator (chalk, label) to identify it as “LR”. Additional close-ups are required for

Vehicle (n) / Left Rear Tire

Image 10: Front Left Oblique

Right: Left rear bumper corner Top: Front and left roof lines Bottom: Lowest frontal component and left side tires

An oblique view of the front and left planes; include crush/damage markers and reference scales if FRONT or LEFT impact.

Vehicle (n) / Front Left Oblique

Image 11: Front Along Left Side

Left: Roughly one-third of the vehicle, determined by right plane framing Right: Length of left side from front plane, facing rearward

Bottom: Lowest front plane component

View from front plane, sighting along the left side of the vehicle; designed to clockwise to better fill frame.

Vehicle (n) / Front Along Left Side

Image 12: Front Along Right Side

Left: Length of right side from front plane, facing rearward Right: Roughly one-third of the vehicle, determined by left plane framing

Bottom: Lowest front plane component

View from front plane, sighting along the right side of the vehicle; designed to counter clockwise to better fill frame.

Vehicle (n) / Front Along Right Side

Vehicle Identifiers and Labels

Image 13: Vehicle VIN

Obtain an image of the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Vehicle (n) / Vehicle Identifier / VIN

Image 14: Vehicle License Plate

An image of the vehicle’s license plate (if present) is required when: an image of the VIN cannot be obtained, or the VIN is not indicated on the PAR or supporting documentation.

Vehicle (n) / Vehicle Identifier / Plate

Image 15: Vehicle Manufacturing Labels

Obtain an image of all visible manufacturing labels – Manufacturer’s Label, Tire Placard, GVWR Placard, and Certified Altered /Certified Modified Labels. Often, manufacturer’s, GVWR, and/or tire information may be combined on a single label.

Vehicle (n) / Miscellaneous / (Enter Label Type)

Front Impact Exterior Images

4 8

7 5

3a

3b

9a

9b

1a

1c 1b

FIGURE 9:

Front Impact

Image 1a: Damage

Left: Last damage marker (C# or Direct Damage) Right: First damage marker (C1 or Direct Damage) Top: Highest frontal component sustaining damage Bottom: Lowest frontal component sustaining damage

Front plane direct and induced damage; include crush/damage markers and reference scales.

Vehicle (n) / Front Plane / Damage

Image 1b: Damage from Passenger Side

Right: Parallel view along front plane

Parallel image along damage to front plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales that are visible. Often best taken by rotating the camera clockwise.

Vehicle (n) / Front Plane / Damage from Passenger Side

Image 1c: Damage from Driver Side

Left: Parallel view along front plane Right: Left front bumper corner

Parallel image along damage to front plane; include crush/damage markers and

Vehicle (n) / Front Plane / Damage from Driver Side

Image 16: Damage Overhead

Left: Right edge of vehicle Right: Left edge of vehicle Top: Windshield and header Bottom: Front bumper

The image should include the hood and as much of the windshield as possible as illustrated in Figure 10. Ensure the entire damaged area is visible, along with a horizontal reference scale aligned with the damaged center point of the front plane.

If the engine compartment is compromised and the hood can be opened, take a second image with the hood raised. Do NOT rotate the camera to fit more of the vehicle in the image.

Vehicle (n) / Front / Damage Overhead

FIGURE 10:

Front Damage Overhead

Back Impact Exterior Images

4 8

7 5

3a

3b

9a

9b

6a

6b 6c

FIGURE 11:

Back Impact

Image 6a: Damage

Left: First damage marker (C1 or Direct Damage) Right: Last damage marker (C# or Direct Damage) Top: Highest back component sustaining damage Bottom: Lowest back component sustaining damage

Back plane direct and induced damage; include crush/damage markers and

Vehicle (n) / Back Plane / Damage

Image 6b: Damage from Driver Side

Right: Parallel view along back plane

Parallel image along damage to back plane; include crush/damage markers and

Vehicle (n) / Back Plane / Damage from Driver Side

Image 6c: Damage from Passenger Side

Left: Parallel view along back plane Right: Right rear bumper corner

Parallel image along damage to back plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales that are visible. Often best taken by rotating the camera counter

Vehicle (n) / Back Plane /Damage from Passenger Side

Image 18: Damage Overhead

Left: Left edge of vehicle Right: Right edge of vehicle Top: Backlight header Bottom: Rear bumper

The image should include the trunk and as much of the backlight as possible as illustrated in Figure 12. Ensure the entire damaged area is visible, along with a horizontal reference scale aligned with the damaged center point of the back plane. Do NOT rotate the camera to fit more of the vehicle in the image.

Vehicle (n) / Back / Damage Overhead

18 FIGURE 12:

Back Damage Overhead

Right Side Impact Exterior Images

4 8

7 5

3a

3b

9a

9b

3d

3e

3c

FIGURE 13:

Right Impact

Image 3c: Damage

Left: Rear most damage marker (C1 or Direct Damage) Right: Forward most damage marker (C# or Direct Damage) Top: Highest right side component involved in damage Bottom: Lowest right side component involved in damage

Right plane direct and induced damage; include crush/damage markers and

Vehicle (n) / Right Plane / Damage

Image 3d: Damage from Back

Left: Right side plane at beginning of direct and induced damage Right: Parallel view along right side plane

Bottom: Ground along right side plane

Parallel image along damage to right plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales that are visible. Best taken by rotating the camera clockwise.

Vehicle (n) / Right Plane / Damage from Back

Image 3e: Right Plane Damage from Front

Left: Parallel view along right side plane Right: Right side plane at beginning of direct and induced damage

Bottom: Ground along right side plane

Parallel image along damage to right plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales that are visible. Best taken by rotating the camera counterclockwise.

Vehicle (n) / Right Plane / Damage from Front

Image 17: Damage Overhead

Left: First C measurement or beginning of direct/induced damage Right: Last C measurement or end of direct/induced damage Top: Top plane, roughly two-thirds across vehicle Bottom: Right side plane of vehicle

Depending on the impact location, the image should include the fender or door(s) and as much of the hood, roof or trunk as possible as illustrated in Figure 14.

Ensure the entire damaged area is visible, along with a horizontal reference scale aligned at the center of the damaged wheelbase. Do NOT rotate the camera to fit more of the vehicle in the image.

Vehicle (n) / Right / Damage Overhead

FIGURE 14:

Right Damage Overhead

Left Side Impact Exterior Images

4 8

7 5

3a

3b

9a

9b

9e

9d

9c

FIGURE 15:

Left Impact

Image 9c: Damage

Left: Forward most damage marker (C# or Direct Damage) Right: Rear most damage marker (C1 or Direct Damage) Top: Highest left side component involved in damage Bottom: Lowest left side component involved in damage

Left plane direct and induced damage; include crush/damage markers and

Vehicle (n) / Left Plane/ Damage

Image 9d: Damage from Front

Left: Left side plane at end of direct and induced damage Right: Parallel view along left side plane

Bottom: Ground along left side plane

Parallel image along damage to left plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales that are visible. Best taken by rotating the camera clockwise.

Vehicle (n) / Left Plane / Damage from Front

Image 9e: Damage from Back

Left: Parallel view along left side plane Right: Left side plane at beginning of direct and induced damage

Bottom: Ground along left side plane

Parallel image along damage to left plane; include crush/damage markers and reference scales that are visible. Best taken by rotating the camera counterclockwise.

Vehicle (n) / Left Plane / Damage from Back

Image 19: Damage Overhead

Left: Last C measurement or end of direct/induced damage Right: First C measurement or beginning of direct/induced damage Top: Top plane, roughly two-thirds across vehicle Bottom: Left side plane of vehicle

Depending on the impact location, the image should include the fender or door(s) and as much of the hood, roof or trunk as possible as illustrated in Figure 16.

Ensure the entire damaged area is visible, along with a horizontal reference scale aligned at the center of the damaged wheelbase. Do NOT rotate the camera to fit more of the vehicle in the image.

Vehicle (n) / Left / Damage Overhead

FIGURE 16:

Left Damage Overhead

Rollover Impact Exterior Images

The documentation of rollovers does not require the conventional use of Field L and crush measurements. In addition to the standard images, overhead views of the top plane are particularly relevant.

All views should be taken utilizing the monopole to allow adequate overhead coverage. Images 20-23 should overlap one another slightly, ensuring complete documentation of the top plane.

The flash should be activated on all exterior images to help eliminate shadows, glare, etc.

Image 20: Damage Overhead Front

Left: Right edge of vehicle Right: Left edge of vehicle Top: Windshield and header Bottom: Front bumper

Overhead view showing the front section of the top plane, including the hood and as much of the windshield and header as fits.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Damage Overhead Front

Image 21: Damage Overhead Right

Left: Vehicle’s top plane, ending at base of backlight Right: Vehicle’s top plane, ending at base of windshield Top: Backlight, roof, and windshield at roughly two-thirds across vehicle Bottom: Right plane of vehicle

20 22

FIGURE 17a:

Rollover Overhead

Right side overhead view showing top surface of roof. Include the right two-thirds of the top plane, extending from the base of the windshield to the base of the backlight. Multiple overlapping images may be required for long or tall vehicles.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Damage Overhead Right

Image 22: Damage Overhead Back

Left: Left edge of vehicle Right: Right edge of vehicle Top: Backlight header Bottom: Rear bumper

Overhead view showing the back section of the top plane, including the trunk or hatch and as much of the backlight and header as fits.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Damage Overhead Back

Image 23: Damage Overhead Left

Left: Vehicle’s top plane, ending at base of windshield Right: Vehicle’s top plane, ending at base of backlight Top: Backlight, roof, and windshield at roughly two-thirds across vehicle Bottom: Left plane of vehicle

Left side overhead view showing top surface of roof. Include the left two-thirds of the top plane, extending from the base of the windshield to the base of the backlight. Multiple overlapping images may be required for long or tall vehicles.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Damage Overhead Left

21 23

FIGURE 17b:

Rollover Overhead

Image 24: Rollover from Front

Left: Right side of vehicle Right: Roughly one half of the roof Top: Roof line Bottom: Mid-door to ground level

View from the front of the vehicle showing the vertical and lateral maximum crush. Rotation of camera is recommended.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Rollover from Front

Image 25: Rollover from Back

Left: Roughly one half of the roof Right: Right side of vehicle Top: Roof line Bottom: Mid-door to ground level

View from the front of the vehicle showing the vertical and lateral maximum crush.

Rotation of camera is recommended.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Rollover from Back

This example demonstrates the set up and photography for maximum crush occurring to the right portion of the top plane. If the maximum crush occurred to the left portion of the roof, the images would be obtained along the left plane. The left and right framing descriptions in images 24 and 25 would simply be reversed. These images focus on the greenhouse max crush area.

FIGURE 18:

Rollover Measurement Gauge

Image 26: Rollover from Right

Left: Approximately the base of the rearmost pillar Right: Approximately the base of the A pillar Top: Top plane of the vehicle Bottom: Bottom of door panel

View from the right side of the vehicle showing depth of roof crush from right.

If pillars are present beyond the C pillar, multiple overlapping images should be obtained.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Rollover from Right

Image 27: Rollover from Left

Left: Approximately the base of the A Pillar Right: Approximately the base of the rearmost pillar Top: Top of the roof Bottom: Bottom of the door panel

View from the left side of the vehicle showing the vertical and lateral maximum crush. If pillars are present beyond the C pillar, multiple overlapping images should be obtained.

Vehicle (n) / Top / Rollover from Left

27 26

FIGURE 19:

Rollover From Right

Fully Repaired Exterior

Only four images should be taken counterclockwise around the vehicle at the beltline level as illustrated in Figure 20. The flash should be activated on all exterior images to help eliminate shadows, glare, etc. Interior images are required, even if the vehicle is fully repaired.

Image 28: Front Right Oblique

Right: Left front bumper corner Top: Front and right roof lines Bottom: Lowest frontal component and right side tires

Oblique view of the front and right side planes.

Vehicle (n) / Fully Repaired / Front Right Oblique

FIGURE 20:

Fully Repaired

Image 29: Back Right Oblique

Right: Right front bumper corner Top: Back and right roof lines Bottom: Lowest back plane component and right side tires

Oblique view of the back and right side planes.

Vehicle (n) / Fully Repaired / Back Right Oblique

Image 30: Back Left Oblique

Right: Right rear bumper corner Top: Back and left roof lines Bottom: Lowest back plane component and left side tires

Oblique view of the back and left side planes.

Vehicle (n) / Fully Repaired / Back Left Oblique

Image 31: Front Left Oblique

Right: Left rear bumper corner Top: Front and left roof lines Bottom: Lowest frontal component and left side tires

Oblique view of the front and left side planes.

Vehicle (n) / Fully Repaired / Front Left Oblique

Fuel Systems

This image is to be obtained ONLY for flex fuel vehicles to capture the fuel types.

Image 32: Fuel Cap and Door

Left: Left of fuel cap and door Right: Right of fuel cap and door Top: Top of fuel cap and door Bottom: Bottom of fuel cap and door

Image should include the fuel cap and the inside of the fuel door, ensuring all labeling is captured

Vehicle (n) / Fuel System / Filler Cap

The following images are to be obtained ONLY if there is damage or integrity loss to a fuel tank or fuel cell system.

Image 33: Fuel System Damage

Damage includes, but is not limited to, dents, tears, holes, punctures or surface scraping. Close-up views are required of all damage. Reference scales are required in all views.

Vehicle (n) / Fuel System / Damage

FIGURE 21:

Fuel Cap / Door

Image 34: Fuel System Integrity Loss

Integrity loss includes any damage that allows for the leakage of fuels. Tears and/or punctures in the fuel tank skin, separation at the seams, and separation of the filler neck or sending unit are examples of fuel system integrity loss. Include close-up views of all integrity loss. Reference scales are required in all views.

Vehicle (n) / Fuel System / Integrity Loss

Fire

If a fire occurs after an impact, thoroughly document the suspected origin area(s) of the fire. These views should include both overviews and specific close-up views of the damaged areas with a reference scale. Views should be taken of the entire engine compartment with the hood raised when the engine is suspected as the ignition source. Close-ups are to be included of any damage to the engine that may have contributed to the initiation or severity of the fire.

Consider the potential for fuel or oil leakage when identifying these areas. All fires require both a fuel and an ignition source. Once identified, both sources are to be documented using general overview and specific close-up views. A reference scale is to be included.

Vehicle (n) / Fire / Specify (Source, Components, etc.)

Interior Photography Overview

It is recommended that the interior images be obtained using the same sequencing as illustrated in Figure 22 to ensure complete and systematic documentation. When seating rows are present beyond the second row, repeat the second-row image requirements for all additional rows. Wide and telephoto settings should be used when appropriate to obtain the necessary subject of each view. Images should not be taken through glazing unless there is no alternative. The following procedures are to be followed:

• The interior images should represent the components of the vehicle as found upon the initial inspection. For example: seat positions, wheel position, seatbelt positions, and glazing should all be photographed at their location upon initial inspection. When components must be moved to complete the interior inspection, return the components to their post-crash position prior to taking the images. When close-up images are required, it will be necessary to move components such as air bags and cover flaps to obtain the image.

• If debris (bumper cover, door, cargo, etc.) is present in passenger compartment, take several images of the vehicle as found. Remove the debris for the remaining images.

These images can be categorized in the Miscellaneous category.

• The flash should typically be activated on interior views to ensure proper illumination and to eliminate shadowing. It is often necessary to cover the vehicle glazing with a blanket to reduce outside glare and allow the flash to illuminate interior surfaces.

• When an air bag system is deployed and after examination for contact evidence, documentation and required photography, tuck the air bag back into the module while taking the interior images. Refer to the Air Bag System Section for air bag documentation procedures.

• Intruded components require additional photographic documentation. The image(s) should be captured in a manner that illustrates the component and direction of intrusion. When categorizing intrusions, the “#” should be replaced with associated component. (i.e. Mid-range Intrusion – left IP, Close-up Intrusion – toe pan, etc.)

• Occupant contacts should be highlighted prior to taking images, taking caution to put the contact tape adjacent to a contact, not on it.

• Mid-range and close-up images of occupant contacts are required. If there are numerous occupant contacts, they may be grouped in a single image, provided all contacts are included in adequate detail. These images are important for the association of an injury to a source.

• When categorizing contacts, the “#” should be replaced with the assigned letter in

CISSWeb and include component contacted for “Close-Up View of Contact #” description. (i.e. Mid-Range View of Contact A, Close-Up View of Contact A – windshield)

• Any evidence of contact or damage to the restraint systems should be highlighted and photographed. Include close-up images of damage or failure to the webbing, latch plate, buckle, upper anchorage adjustments, or mounting points. Also, photograph evidence indicative of restraint usage such as web stretching, D-ring load marks, latch plate belt guides, and actuated pretensioners.

• Images of door panel contacts should be taken from an overall view that identifies the quadrant in which the contact occurred. Scales or tape should NOT be used to distinguish the quadrants.

• Additional images are often necessary to capture:

• integrity loss in components such as doors, windows, etc.

• suspected malfunctions to seats, restraints, door hinge/latch/striker, etc.

• glazing damage

• intruding components

• steering wheel rim deformation

• deformation to seat components

• suspected route of ejection when applicable

• Use additional close-up images to fully document active head restraints. These images should capture any labeling indicating the presence of active head restraints as well as any contact or damage to them.

• All child safety…