CMI Report Writing & Case Documentation 3

Question 1

In a marine investigation, the term 'spoliation of evidence' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Intentional or negligent destruction, alteration, or concealment of relevant evidence

Answer

Spoliation is the intentional or negligent destruction or alteration of evidence, which can result in adverse inference instructions in legal proceedings.

Question 2

When drafting the 'findings of fact' section of a marine casualty report, the investigator should:

Accepted Answer

State only objective, evidence-supported facts without speculation

Answer

Findings of fact must be restricted to objective, evidence-supported statements to maintain the report's legal and professional credibility.

Question 3

Which document would a CMI most likely use to establish a vessel's navigational track during an incident investigation?

Accepted Answer

AIS (Automatic Identification System) data records

Answer

AIS data provides a timestamped navigational track of a vessel's position, speed, and course, making it critical evidence in casualty investigations.

Question 4

A 'privileged communication' in the context of marine casualty reporting most commonly refers to:

Accepted Answer

Statements made by crew members to company attorneys after a casualty

Answer

Attorney-client privilege protects communications between crew or company personnel and their legal counsel, potentially shielding them from compelled disclosure.

Question 5

When a marine investigator references SOLAS Chapter V in a report, they are addressing requirements related to:

Accepted Answer

Safety of navigation, including bridge procedures and voyage planning

Answer

SOLAS Chapter V covers safety of navigation, including requirements for voyage planning, watchkeeping, and bridge resource management.

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

CMI Report Writing & Case Documentation 3