Ten things to do if you’re in an accident

Accidents occur on our roads on a daily basis and – given that we are all on the road a lot – you never know when it may happen to you.

With this in mind, what should you do in the unfortunate event that you are involved in an accident?

IPSS Medical Rescue‘s Paul Herbst gives some advice for what to do in these harrowing circumstances:

• Immediately stop and secure the vehicle – the extent of accidents and subsequent damage can vary. Make sure that you are stationary in an area free of further danger. Apply the handbrake as cars can still move despite damage.
• Determine the extent of injuries to both yourself and those with you, as well as to anybody else that may be involved in the incident. Do not move injured persons, unless their life or safety is in immediate danger.
• Contact emergency services. They are going to need to know what has happened, where it is happened and what is required. Offer as much information as possible in a concise manner. In addition to the relevant nature and location details, common factors to consider are: entrapments – is anybody trapped in a vehicle? Fire – is there any? Chemicals – are these involved at all? The emergency call-taker will prompt you for relevant information.
• Render first-aid to those who are in need of urgent medical intervention, if it is within your ability and means to do so safely.
• While awaiting the arrival of emergency services, take practical steps that may improve scene safety. This may include warning approaching traffic of the incident and moving all parties off of the road-way.
• Upon arrival of emergency services, provide a concise update to the crew. Cooperate with their requests.
• Details – gather information from other parties that are involved, witnesses and police officers in attendance. Be sure to get all personal details of other drivers and, where possible, take a photo of the vehicles license disc.
• Be certain of what information you offer to persons and/or admit to. Such statements can be used at a later date.
• Only allow credible tow-truck operators to remove your vehicle. Be certain to discuss matters relating to fees upfront, as people are often surprised with exorbitant storage and handling fees. Remove all valuables from your vehicle.
• Report the matter to the SAPS within 24 hours.

>>> Need some ideas for things to do? Check out Holiday Vibes.

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