Most people, at some point, have come across an accident scene. Whether you’re driving past or stopped to help, there are some safety factors as well as courtesy rules that one should observe.

Police spokesperson Captain Charmaine Struwig provided this advice to minimise danger at accident scenes:

1. People slowly drive past or stop in order to snap a photo or take a video with their cellphones. The actions of such individuals are extremely dangerous and could amount to reckless and negligent driving. Not only do they create the risk for secondary collisions to occur, but they are preventing emergency personnel from getting to the scene and are impeding the authorities in the performance of their functions.

2. We should also not forget that there is also the heartbreaking emotional damage that can be inflicted upon the family of the injured or deceased accident victim when they learn of the injury or death of their loved one through social media images and video clips. Let us respect the dignity of the injured and deceased by acting responsibly when it comes to accident scenes.

3. Be safety conscious while travelling and do not “rubber neck”. Allow the authorities room to do what they need to – lives are at stake.