Improving incident management response and coordination of resources.

Walton, J. R.; Barrett, M. L.; Pigman, J. G. · 2001 · ROSA P / University of Kentucky Transportation Center

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Summary

This report addresses the critical need for improved incident management and resource coordination in response to highway crashes in Kentucky. The research was motivated by the severe impacts of crashes on transportation networks, specifically traveler delays, the high risk of secondary crashes, and the safety hazards posed to emergency responders. The primary objective was to identify issues surrounding crash site management from the perspective of emergency personnel and to implement solutions that reduce clearance times and enhance safety for all parties involved. The methodology involved a collaborative approach with stakeholders from various agencies, including law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, towing companies, and transportation authorities. A focus group meeting was conducted to identify activities, necessary equipment, and specific problems associated with crash management. Participants categorized 53 identified issues into ten themes, such as communications, personnel, and traffic control. Based on this input, the researchers developed two primary tools: a Highway Crash Site Management Checklist and an interagency training workshop. The Checklist provides a prioritized list of activities for initial, primary, and supporting responders, emphasizing communication and traffic control. The workshop included instructional material and a scenario-based activity where participants assumed different responder roles to practice using the Checklist. The study evaluated the effectiveness of these tools through a pilot workshop held in Bowling Green, Kentucky, attended by approximately forty representatives from local and state agencies. Thirty participants completed evaluation forms. The results were highly positive: 90% of participants agreed the workshop was personally helpful, and nearly 97% stated they would encourage others to attend. Furthermore, nearly 80% indicated they would use the Checklist at crash scenes. Participants noted that the interagency training improved their understanding of other agencies' roles and promoted better communication. Feedback suggested improvements for future workshops, such as incorporating experienced trainers, inviting additional agencies like dispatch and media, and using real crash video or photos to enhance the scenario activities. The significance of this work lies in its provision of a structured, coordinated plan for managing highway crash scenes. The Checklist serves as a practical tool to streamline response efforts, clarify roles, and facilitate resource coordination, thereby reducing the time required to clear incidents. The interagency workshop fosters teamwork and mutual understanding among diverse responders. By improving the efficiency and safety of incident management, the project aims to mitigate the negative impacts of highway crashes on traffic flow and public safety. The report concludes that further workshops across the state, incorporating the suggested revisions, will continue to benefit incident management practices in Kentucky.

Key finding

Ninety percent of workshop participants agreed the training was helpful, and nearly eighty percent stated they would use the checklist on scene.

Methodology

mixed_methods

Sample size: 30

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• in depth crash investigation