Completing the DD Form 518 accurately is essential for ensuring proper communication following an accident involving a Department of Defense (DoD) vehicle. Several common mistakes can hinder this process. First, many individuals fail to provide the correct date of the accident. This crucial detail helps in establishing the timeline of events and is necessary for any follow-up actions.
Secondly, not including all required identification details is frequent. The form asks for the driver’s last name, first name, and middle initial, along with the organization and SSN. Omitting any of this information may lead to confusion regarding the identity of the driver.
Another error often seen involves the registration number of the vehicle. Individuals sometimes either write this number incorrectly or leave it blank entirely. This mistake complicates the identification of the vehicle involved in the accident, creating potential difficulties for all parties concerned.
Furthermore, many individuals neglect to specify the make and type of the vehicle. Providing accurate vehicle details ensures a complete report, allowing other parties to understand the specifics of the situation.
Some people overlook the importance of the privacy statement found on the reverse side of the form. Understanding the implications of the Privacy Act of 1974 is critical for those filling out the form, as it outlines how personal information will be handled.
Additionally, failure to sign and date the form is a common oversight. Even if the form is filled out in its entirety, a missing signature can render it invalid and prevent effective communication about the accident.
Moreover, the presence of incomplete or unclear descriptions of the accident can lead to misunderstandings. Providing detailed accounts of what occurred ensures that relevant information reaches the appropriate parties.
Finally, some individuals may not understand that submission of the SSN is voluntary. Therefore, they may refrain from providing it out of concern for privacy. While disclosure is indeed not mandatory, including the SSN could assist in properly identifying the driver in cases of name similarity.