What to do at the scene of an incident

This lesson covers what the theory test asks about. It is not a substitute for first-aid training, which is genuinely worth doing.

The order

1. Make the scene safe.

• Switch on hazard warning lights.
• Switch off engines, and stop anyone smoking.
• On an ordinary road, place a warning triangle at least 45 metres behind the scene — further before a bend or brow. Never on a motorway: walking along a live carriageway to place one is far too dangerous.

2. Call the emergency services. Give the exact location, how many casualties there are and how badly they are hurt, whether anyone is trapped, and any hazards such as fire, fuel spillage or a tanker’s hazard plate.

3. Care for casualties, in that order of priority.

First-aid priorities

Airway, breathing, circulation.

• Airway — tilt the head back gently and lift the chin.
• Breathing — check whether they are breathing normally.
• Circulation — control serious bleeding with firm direct pressure over the wound, raising the limb if you can. If something is embedded, press around it, never on it, and never pull it out.

If they are not breathing normally, start CPR: compressions in the centre of the chest, 5–6 cm deep, at 100–120 a minute, letting the chest recoil fully between each. Ask for the nearest defibrillator — they give spoken instructions and only deliver a shock if one is needed.

Do not:

• move a casualty unless they are in immediate danger;
• remove a motorcyclist’s helmet unless it is essential to keep the airway open;
• give anyone anything to eat or drink.

Burns: cool with plenty of clean, cool water for at least 20 minutes. No creams, do not burst blisters, and leave anything stuck to the burn alone.

Keep casualties warm, and keep talking to them. Shock is common and reassurance helps.

What the law requires

If you are involved in a collision that causes damage or injury, you must stop. You must give your name, address and vehicle registration to anyone with reasonable grounds to ask.

If you cannot exchange details at the time, report it to the police as soon as reasonably practicable and within 24 hours. If anyone is injured, you must also produce insurance details.

Failing to stop after a collision is a serious offence.

Breakdowns

On a motorway, aim for an emergency area or the next exit if the vehicle will still move. If you must stop, put the hazard lights on, leave by the nearside doors if it is safe, and get behind the barrier well back from the vehicle. Leave animals in the car. If you cannot get out safely, stay belted in with the hazards on and call 999.

On a level crossing, get everyone out and clear first, then use the railway telephone to tell the signal operator. Only try to move the vehicle if they say there is time.