Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/330408
June 2014| Construction Equipment Distribution | www.cedmag.com | 25 Play It Safe hindering your ability to defend against allegations. Determine contributing factors and root causes. Evaluate if there are additional factors that may have contributed to the accident. These are often procedural or process-related errors, unsafe actions or conditions. Complete your report. After all the information has been gathered and interviews with possible witnesses completed, the investigating manager will need to summarize his or her findings. In addition to a description of the injury and factors that led to the incident, the manager should be prepared to identify corrective actions and who is to be responsible for completion. Be sure the report and any evidence are secured and available for future needs. Don't hesitate to contact legal counsel early in the process if you feel there is high potential for a future lawsuit based on your investigation and seriousness of the accident. The primary purpose for any effec- tive risk management program is the prevention of injuries and property damage. An effective accident inves- tigation process can significantly improve your program by avoiding recurring accidents and providing thorough documentation should an accident occur. This document is made available by Sentry Insurance a Mutual Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates (collectively "SIAM- CO") with the understanding that SIAMCO is not engaged in the practice of law, nor is it rendering legal advice. The information contained in this document is of a general nature and is not in- tended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity, nor the best practices applicable to any particular indi- vidual or entity. Legal obligations may vary by state and locality, and best practices are unique to specific items and situations. No one should act on the information contained in this document without advice from a local professional with relevant expertise. ERIC STILES is Sentry's lead account executive responsible for main- taining the AED/Sentry relationship. He can be reached at eric.stiles@ sentry.com. As the endorsed P&C carrier for AED, Sentry Insurance offers superior coverage options and services to meet your dealership needs.