MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

Upon arriving first at a fatal crash scene, what is the initial action you should take?

1. Shut down the road.

2. Call for backup to assist.

3. Request a medical examiner immediately.

The correct answer is: Shut down the road.

The initial action upon arriving first at a fatal crash scene is to secure the scene, which includes shutting down the road. This step is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures the safety of everyone involved, including potential victims, witnesses, and emergency responders, preventing additional accidents that could arise from oncoming traffic. Securing the area helps maintain a controlled environment for investigation and prevents unauthorized access to the crash site. Once the area is secured, other actions such as calling for backup and requesting a medical examiner can be effectively coordinated without the distraction of passing vehicles or bystanders. By prioritizing the safety and security of the accident scene, law enforcement can facilitate an orderly response and gather accurate information for the investigation.