Three proposals for faster accident investigation
The expert believes it is crucial to change decades-old practices and offers a concrete three-step plan. "First, in the shortest possible time, we need to organize the clearing of necessary space on the highway, then use high technology to collect and secure all necessary evidence, and use specialized drones to perform 3D scanning of the accident area," he explained.
The second measure concerns logistics: "At strategic locations, we should ensure standby service teams to move and tow damaged vehicles, if necessary to the hard shoulder."
The third proposal introduces a mechanism of accountability: "For all traffic jams caused by accidents and investigations on highways lasting longer than 90 minutes, an investigative commission should be established to assess the reasons for the length of the process and initiate measures for improvement."
Marušić adds that the police could train faster procedures using helicopters and drones, and emphasizes that investigations should not last for hours. Besides the stress for drivers, long-lasting traffic jams also harm domestic tourism and the economy.