Why does the first hour matter?
After a crash, the vehicle may keep running, the recorder may keep writing, and people may move or repair things. Each of these can destroy data you will want later. The checklist puts the protective steps first and gives each a target counted from the incident time.
Overwriting and the storage card
Many recorders record in a loop and overwrite the oldest footage when storage fills. How long that takes depends on the number of cameras, the quality and the card size. Work out the time left first, then lock the recording or remove the card as your device documentation says. Do not format the card.
The device clock
Compare the device time with real time while you are at the vehicle and write the difference in seconds. Do not change the clock. A clock that is a few seconds out can matter when you line up video with GPS data.
Hash and custody
Calculate a hash for each exported file and write it down. Keep one locked original and work from copies. Every handover goes into a custody log, so you can show later who held what and when.
References to verify
Some operator standards ask for a rolling record of the minutes before an event. A copy of the PDO road safety standard SP-2000 is reported to mention a 5-minute second-by-second record. We could not confirm this or its clause number against the current edition. Some operators also set short deadlines for investigation reports on serious cases. Read the current official text of your client's requirement, and check what your own device records. This checklist does not say that any Tracom device meets a requirement. iogp.org
Limits of this checklist
It reminds you of the steps and times them. It does not describe device menus, and it does not replace your investigation procedure. Sharing footage outside the company needs legal review.