Motor vehicle mishap? Here’s what to do

DO you know what to do if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident?

Well known local tow truck operator, Chris Marais from JVS Towing and Recovery, recently shared some safety tips on what to do should you find yourself in a predicament where you are involved in or a witness to a car accident.

“Even if nobody was injured you must swap names and addresses, regardless of who is at fault,” says Chris. “It’s an offence to refuse to give your details, but if you exchange them on a damage-only accident, there’s no need to notify the police.”

“Make sure everyone is safe.” he adds. “If vehicles are in a dangerous position or blocking the road, make sure everyone’s out of the way and that someone warns approaching traffic.

But use your common sense. Don’t move a badly injured person, or place yourself or anyone else into a dangerous position trying to flag down oncoming cars.”

“Call the police. Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 requires that you report the accident to the police if a driver fails to stop, or refuses to exchange details, whether there’s injury or not. If somebody’s badly hurt or the scene is potentially dangerous, call Kwazulu Private Ambulance at 0860 247 911. To report a collision where there’s no emergency, call 10111 to avoid tying up the emergency line.”

You must make your report within 24 hours,” states Chris. “Give the right details and avoid apologising or accepting blame at the scene as it could be used against you later. Wait until you know all the facts, and aren’t in an emotional or shocked state.”

“You must give your name and address to anyone involved, and call an ambulance for anyone who needs it.” he adds. “Get the right details – Ask for names, addresses and phone numbers of those involved, and make sure the driver is the registered keeper. If not, ask who is and get their details too.”

“Note the make, model and colour of any vehicles, plus the number plates,” he continues. “You should also note the time and date, and take the names and addresses of any witnesses.

“Take photos,” he concludes. “Chances are you or a witness will be able to take pictures with your phone. Record the scene from several angles so the details are clear. If you don’t have a camera, sketch the positions of the cars and note the weather, the road conditions and any injuries as it will help you remember what really happened later.”

Another Article you might want to read:Trans port month- more than road safety at Vryheid road Block.

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