Emergency Procedures, First Aid and Accident Handling
At the scene of a collision
Stop, switch off your engine, switch on hazard lights and make the scene safe. Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic. Call emergency services and give a clear location, number of casualties and the nature of injuries.
First aid basics
- Check responsiveness and breathing. If unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR if trained and call for help.
- Control bleeding with direct pressure using a clean cloth; do not remove an object embedded in a wound.
- Do not move a suspected spinal injury unless necessary to save life.
- Keep the casualty warm and calm until help arrives.
Reporting and legal duties
After a collision involving injury or damage, exchange details with the other party, report to police as required, and inform your insurer. Leaving the scene of an injury collision is a serious offence. Record what you saw while it is fresh.
Breakdowns and emergencies
If your vehicle breaks down, move it off the carriageway, use hazard lights and a warning triangle, and stand away from traffic. If your brakes fail, pump the pedal, use engine braking and a safe off-road escape. If a tyre bursts, hold the wheel firmly and slow gradually without hard braking.
Traps in questions
- Do not move casualties unless there is immediate danger.
- Do not remove embedded objects from wounds.
- Leaving the scene of an injury collision is an offence.
Rule of thumb
Make the scene safe, call for help, then give first aid in that order.