Emergencies, Crashes, and Safety Equipment
Emergency handling and safety equipment are tested because quick, correct actions prevent secondary crashes. Know what to do after a crash and what restraints NJ requires.
After a crash
- Stop, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries.
- Call 911 for injuries, fire, or hazardous spills. Exchange name, address, insurance, and registration.
- Move vehicles out of travel lanes if they are drivable and no one is hurt; otherwise warn traffic.
- Never leave the scene of a crash involving injury or death.
Safety equipment
- Seat belts are required for front-seat occupants and for rear-seat passengers under 18.
- Children under 8 years and under 57 inches must use an approved child restraint; children under 2 and under 30 pounds must be rear-facing.
- Use child locks and the back seat; an airbag can injure a small child in front.
Worked example
A front tire blows at highway speed. Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and steer straight. Do not slam the brakes; that can pull you into a spin. Once slowed, move to the shoulder, turn on hazards, and call for help.
Traps
Standing in a live lane after a fender-bender; putting a 6-year-old in an adult belt; and braking hard during a blowout. Also, move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles when safe.