What is the proper method for preserving wheel marks?

The proper method for preserving wheel marks is to cast selected points with characteristic marks or wear. Casting involves creating a three-dimensional representation of the wheel mark which preserves the details of the tread patterns, depth, and any unique characteristics that can be useful for analysis later on. This method allows forensic analysts to maintain the physical evidence in a way that can be directly correlated with vehicles involved in a crime scene, providing valuable information for investigations.

While photographing wheel marks is certainly important and can capture the overall scene, it may not capture the depth and texture details that casting can. Marking the area with spray paint can alter or damage the evidence, and drawing a diagram, while useful for documentation, does not physically preserve the mark itself. Thus, casting provides the most accurate and usable form of evidence for forensic analysis in relation to wheel marks.