First Aid, Emergencies and Accident Procedures
At the scene of a collision the priorities are: protect the scene, alert the emergency services, and give first aid within your ability. Protect the scene by stopping safely, switching on hazard lights and, if it is safe, placing a warning triangle behind the vehicles. Do not create a second collision. Call the emergency services with clear information: location, number of casualties, and hazards.
For casualties, the basic sequence is: check for danger, check responsiveness and breathing, and if the casualty is not breathing normally, start CPR and get help. Control severe bleeding with direct pressure. Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire, because movement can worsen spinal injuries. Do not give food or drink to an injured person. Keep casualties warm and reassured.
Know the legal duties after a collision: stop, give your details, and report to the police where required. Do not leave the scene. Traps: questions may suggest moving a casualty immediately; the safe answer is not to move them unless in danger. Another trap is forgetting to make the scene safe before helping, which endangers everyone.
Rule of thumb: danger, response, airway, breathing, circulation. Worked example: a motorcyclist is lying in the road and breathing; keep them still, protect the scene, call for help and keep them warm until the ambulance arrives.