Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Practice Exam

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What should an officer do when there is a gap of 15 feet or more in a skid mark?

Count it as one skid mark
Count them as two separate skid marks
Ignore the gap
Only measure the first mark

The correct answer is: Count them as two separate skid marks

When an officer encounters a gap of 15 feet or more in a skid mark, it should be counted as two separate skid marks. This approach is based on the principle that a skid mark represents a continuous application of braking force, maintaining a consistent tire skid. A gap of 15 feet or more indicates that there was a significant interruption in that braking action, likely resulting from the vehicle's tires leaving the road surface entirely or the driver possibly releasing the brakes. By recognizing the separate skid marks, the officer can accurately analyze the vehicle's speed and dynamics during the incident, which is vital for accident reconstruction. This detailed analysis assists in understanding the behavior of the vehicle in the moments leading up to the incident, how the driver responded, and can impact legal assessments or investigations following the event. Understanding the distinction and significance of the gap ensures that officers maintain accuracy in their reports and conclusions drawn from the physical evidence observed at the scene.