First Aid for Road Accident Victims
Core concepts
First aid at a crash scene follows a sequence: make the scene safe (warn traffic, switch off engines, avoid fire risk), check responsiveness and breathing, call emergency services, and provide care within your competence. The recovery position protects the airway in an unconscious but breathing casualty; CPR is used when breathing has stopped. Bleeding is controlled with direct pressure; suspected spinal injuries require minimal movement of the casualty.
Priorities and traps
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic).
- Do not give food or drink to an injured person.
- A helmet should generally be left on a motorcyclist unless the airway is obstructed.
- Control severe bleeding before worrying about fractures.
- Keep the casualty warm and reassure them.
Rule of thumb
Remember the order: safety, response, breathing, call, care. If the casualty is breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position and monitor. If not breathing, start CPR and continue until help arrives.