Emergencies, Collisions and First Response
This domain tests what you do when control is lost or a collision happens. The exam rewards calm, simple actions and punishes panic braking, moving injured people unnecessarily or leaving the scene.
Emergency handling
- Blowout: grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, keep straight and slow gradually; avoid hard braking.
- Brake failure: pump the pedal, change to a lower gear, use the handbrake gently and look for a safe escape route.
- Skid: ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go; avoid sudden braking.
- Fire: stop, switch off the engine, get everyone out and call the emergency services; do not open the bonnet wide.
Collision response
- Stop, switch on hazard lights and make the scene safe.
- Call the police and ambulance; give first aid within your training.
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire.
- Exchange names, addresses, licence, registration and insurance details.
- Report the collision as required, even if damage seems minor.
Worked example
A front tyre blows out at speed. You hold the wheel, ease off the accelerator and let the car slow before pulling over. Reasoning: hard braking transfers weight to the damaged corner and can cause a spin; gradual slowing keeps steering control.
Traps that cost marks
- Slamming the brakes during a blowout.
- Moving an injured motorcyclist 'to make them comfortable'.
- Leaving the scene before exchanging details.
- Opening a burning bonnet fully and feeding the fire with air.