Guide & Resources
Establish a Crash Analysis Studio
Goal
Secure a commitment that serious traffic crashes in your community will be reviewed through a structured learning process.
A Crash Analysis Studio does not require a new department, dedicated staff, or a large budget.
Establishing a Studio simply means making a commitment: when a fatal or life-altering crash occurs, your community will gather information, hold a structured review, identify contributing factors, and document opportunities for improvement.
Different communities will make this commitment in different ways.
Some will adopt a formal resolution through their governing body. Others will establish the process through an administrative policy or staff directive. In some communities, the effort may begin with residents, advocates, or professional organizations working to build support for the model.
The specific path matters less than the commitment itself.
Before moving forward, your community should identify who will lead the effort, how serious crashes will be selected for review, and how findings will be shared with decision-makers and the public.
When are you ready to proceed?
At least one of the following exists:
A documented community coalition with identified partners and a plan for conducting Studios
A written commitment from community leadership
An administrative policy or staff directive (use our template)
A resolution or motion adopted by the governing body (use our template)
Once this commitment is in place, your community is ready to build a Crash Response Team.
Resources to Establish a Studio
Model Motion
A templated motion for City Councils, Boards, or Commissions to establish a Crash Analysis Studio.
Model Administrative Policy
A templated administrative policy memo establishing a Crash Analysis Studio.
Model Staff Memo to Council
A templated memo requesting City Council authorization to establish a Crash Analysis Studio.
Keep Going
Continue Developing Your Studio by Building Your Crash Response Team
