Who is responsible for the removal of debris after a traffic crash?

The responsibility for the removal of debris after a traffic crash typically falls on the wrecker or tow truck driver. This is because, after a collision, it is often the towing company that is contracted or called upon to clear the roadway of wrecked vehicles and any debris resulting from the crash. Their role includes ensuring that the scene is safe for other road users by removing hazardous materials and restoring normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.

While a police officer on the scene may initially manage the accident site and coordinate emergency services, their primary responsibilities focus on law enforcement duties, such as directing traffic and investigating the accident. City sanitation services and emergency medical teams are not typically involved in debris removal; sanitation services focus on waste management, and medical teams are primarily concerned with providing care to injured individuals. Thus, the wrecker or tow truck driver plays a crucial and specialized role in effectively handling the aftermath of a traffic accident.