Accidents, first aid and emergency procedures
What this domain tests
This domain tests scene safety, basic first aid, and correct reporting after an incident involving a lorry and trailer. The priority is always to prevent further injury before treating minor damage.
Securing the scene
- Stop, switch off the engine, and apply the parking brake.
- Switch on hazard lights. Put on a high-visibility vest before leaving the cab.
- Place a warning triangle at a safe distance; on a motorway place it well behind the vehicle and never walk into live traffic.
- Keep passengers and bystanders behind a barrier or away from the carriageway.
- Call 112 for serious injury, fire, or a dangerous load.
First aid priorities
Check responsiveness and breathing. If the casualty is not breathing normally, start CPR and send for an AED. Control severe bleeding with direct pressure. Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire. Keep the casualty warm and monitor breathing until help arrives.
Reporting and documentation
Exchange details, record other parties, witnesses, and conditions. Notify the police when required, and inform your operator. Photograph damage and load damage if safe. Do not admit liability; give facts to the insurer and police.
Worked example
A trailer tyre bursts and the combination stops on the hard shoulder. Reasoned answer: switch on hazard lights, put on a high-visibility vest, and get occupants behind the barrier. Place the warning triangle well behind the combination if it is safe. Do not stand between the trailer and live traffic. Call for recovery rather than attempting a wheel change next to moving vehicles.
Traps that cost marks
- Standing in the carriageway while placing the triangle.
- Moving an injured motorcyclist who is breathing and not in danger.
- Leaving hazard lights off on a motorway shoulder.
- Forgetting to secure the trailer before inspecting damage.
- Giving opinions about blame at the scene.