Accidents and emergencies

Even the best drivers can find themselves involved in an accident.  The immediate concern in the aftermath of an accident is always to take stock of the situation, make sure everyone is ok and that no one is at risk of further harm.

So what steps should you take if you find yourself involved in, or present at, the scene of an accident?

1. Assess the scene and alert others

To minimise risk at the scene, make sure your hazard lights are on so others are aware that there has been an accident. Ask drivers to switch off their engines, and any bystanders to stop smoking. Make sure anyone who is uninjured is moved away from traffic to safety.

 2. Arrange for the emergency services to be called.

Give as much detail as you can on your location and any casualties at the scene.  If you’re on the motorway, you can use the emergency telephone, which allows easy location by the emergency services.

3.  Give first aid to anyone who you can help

Do not remove a motorcyclist’s helmet unless it is essential to do so, however if you are trained in first aid you should offer what help you can until the emergency services arrive. You can read our blog post on first aid on the road here (link to first aid blog post) Make sure you stay at the scene until help arrives.

 It’s important to remember that if you find yourself passing an accident where help has already arrived, that you do not slow down or get distracted as this may cause a collision.

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