EXPERT QUALIFICATION

Accident Investigator training and experience

Alan Cooper served with the Metropolitan Police Service for 25 years and, during that time, studied many aspects of law, training specifically in traffic law, basic accident investigation, motor vehicle examinations and investigative statement taking at Hendon Police Driving School, recognised world-wide as the premier Police Driving College.

During these intense courses, training was also given in court procedure including the necessary prosecuting skills required to obtain successful outcomes at magistrate’s court, without the need for solicitors. Advanced driving of cars and motorcycles was also a major part of this intense curriculum. Testing examinations were the conclusion to all courses.

As a specialist Traffic Officer, and part of an elite unit, Alan Cooper attended and investigated numerous road traffic accidents (approximately 4000), many resulting in attendance at court with successful prosecution. Expert advice on traffic matters, including road traffic accidents and vehicle examinations was regularly sought, and given, to many of the 22.000 active Metropolitan Police officers.

The training, expertise and experience gained in Road Traffic Law and court procedure was recognised by both The Metropolitan Police Service and the Judiciary, with such officers being acknowledged as “ expert” by both bodies.Consequently their evidence was accepted in all courts and permission to prosecute in Magistrates Court conceded.

The skill of witness statement-taking can be crucial to a successful case and it is this expert service that is also offered. This ensures that every required detail is obtained from the witness by his or her own volition, not by prompting or suggestion.

These services are offered to the legal profession and associated bodies only.