What to Do If You're First at the Scene of a Car Accident
Road Traffic collisions are an everyday occurrence but would you know what to do if you were first to arrive at the scene? By following this guide you could save someone’s life.
Basic First Aid at the Car Accident Scene
- Call 999
- DO NOT put yourself in danger
- DO NOT move the casualties from their vehicles unless it is essential
- DO NOT remove a motorcyclist’s helmet unless it is essential
- DO NOT give casualties anything to eat or drink
- DO try to make the warm and as comfortable as you can, but avoid unnecessary movement.
- DO keep reassuring the casualty
- Always remember that the casualty may be suffering from shock
- If possible try not to leave the casualties alone or let them wander into the path of other traffic
Always carry a first aid kit in your vehicle. You can do a number of things to save a life, even if you have had no training.
How to Perform Basic First Aid in an Emergency
Not Breathing
Remember the letters D R A B C
D- Danger – Check that you are not putting yourself in danger
R- Response – Try to get a response by asking questions and gently shaking their shoulders.
A – Airways – If they are unconscious check their airway is open and clear. To open the airway, place one hand on the forehand and gently tilt their head back, then lift the chin using 2 fingers only.
B – Breathing – Keeping the airway open, check to see if the breathing is normal. Look along their chest, and listen and feel for breath on your cheek for up to 10 seconds.
C – Compressions – If they are not breathing, start chest compressions immediately.
- Place one hand on the centre of their chest. Place the heel of your other hand on top of the first and interlock your fingers, keeping your fingers off their ribs.
- Lean directly over their chest and press down vertically about 5-6cm. Release the pressure, but don’t remove your hands.
- Give compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute until help arrives.
Managing Bleeding at the Accident Scene
- Check for anything that may be in the wound, such as glass or debris.
- Apply firm pressure over the wound if nothing is embedded.
- If the wound has something embedded, do not press on the object – build up padding at either side of it. Fasten a pad to the wound with a bandage or length of cloth. Use the cleanest material available.
- If a limb is bleeding, but not broken raise it above the level of the heart to reduce the flow of blood. Any restriction of blood circulation for more than a short time could cause long term injuries.
How to Treat Burns
- Cool the burn by dousing it with clean , cold water or similar non-toxic liquid for at least 10 minutes
- Do not try and remove anything sticking to the burn.
Here are 5 things you should never do after a road traffic collision.
If you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault CRASH Services can take care of everything at no cost to you. Please speak to one of our specialists now from our claims team by clicking HERE.
We also offer Medical Assistance after an accident. We take care of everything at no cost to you.
Information provided by www.drivingtestsuccess.com
How CRASH Services Can Help You After A Car Crash or Accident
At CRASH Services, we specialise in helping drivers in Belfast, Newry, Derry~Londonderry and across Northern Ireland get back on the road quickly.
After an accident, our expert team will take care of:
- vehicle recovery,
- collision investigation,
- organising repairs,
- providing a replacement vehicle,
- liaising with insurance companies and
- legal and medical
And we do it all, at no cost to the not-at-fault driver.
Our service is free as we recover the costs from the third-party insurers.
Why Choose CRASH Services?
- Established in 1996
- Trusted by Hundreds of Thousands Local Northern Ireland Motorists
- No Cost to You, Costs Recovered from Insurers
- Complete Accident Management from Recovery to Repairs
- 99% Customer Recommendation Rate
Our Mission is Simple:
“To act with care for those involved in road traffic accidents.”
Need Help After an Accident in Belfast, Newry, Derry~Londonderry or anywhere across Northern Ireland?
Call us today on 028 9066 0244 or Request a Callback Today
CRASH Services, take care of everything, at no cost to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do first if I arrive at the scene of a car accident?
Your first priority should be safety. Assess the scene for danger, call 999 immediately if emergency services are required, and avoid putting yourself or others at risk. - Should I move an injured person after a car accident?
No, unless there is an immediate danger such as fire, smoke, or a risk of further collision. Moving someone with potential neck, back, or spinal injuries could make their condition worse. - Should I remove a motorcyclist’s helmet?
Generally, no. Motorcycle helmets should only be removed if it is absolutely necessary, such as when the casualty is not breathing and airway management is required.
