Incidents, Accidents and Emergencies

The entire process of learning to drive, and passing both the theory and practical tests, has one important purpose, and that is to reduce the risk of having an accident. Always remember, that if you are involved in a collision, the law requires you to stop. The questions in this section relate to handling the aftermath of an accident and basic first aid topics.

Motorcycle Crash

• Never remove a motorcyclists helmet unless absolutely necessary, as it could result in a more serious injury

Bleeding

• Apply firm pressure to the wound to stop bleeding
• Wounded arms or legs should be raised to lessen bleeding

Burns

• Do not remove anything that is stuck to the burn area
• Douse the burn with cool, clean, non-toxic liquid
• Keep cooling the burn for a minimum of 10 minutes

Shock

• The warning signs of shock are pale grey skin and sweating
• Keep the victim warm and reassure them constantly
• Avoid moving them if possible
• Do not leave them alone
• Do not offer cigarettes or alcohol

Unconscious Casualty

• Check if they are breathing for at least ten seconds and that their airway is clear
• Check for a consistent and regular heartbeat
• Try and stop any heavy bleeding

Casualty Not Breathing

• Remove anything blocking their mouth and nose, and tilt the head back
• Pinch the nostrils together, and breathe into the mouth, taking care to give gentle breaths if it is a child
• Chest compressions should be given at a rate of 100 per minute to a depth of 4 to 5 cm
• Always seek professional medical assistance

At The Accident Scene

• Do not put yourself at risk
• Switch on hazard lights to warn other traffic and road users
• Call emergency services immediately
• Make sure the engines are switched off in all vehicles
• If any people are not injured, keep them clear of the scene
• Injured people should not be left alone, and should be kept warm and comfortable
• Talk reassuringly to any injured people to keep them calm
• Do not move any casualties unless they are in further danger
• Keep the casualties in the car, if it is safe, to avoid the risk of exacerbating back injuries

Lost Luggage (Motorway)

• If luggage or any other items fall from the vehicle or roof rack, call the police from the next emergency phone
• Do not try to retrieve it yourself

Equipment for Collisions

• Always carry a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher
• A warning triangle is useful but should not be used on motorways

Documents

• Police may ask to see your driving licence, insurance and MOT certificates after an accident

Fire

• If your engine catches fire, call the fire brigade and do not lift the bonnet
• Always be wary of a strong smell of petrol
• Always carry a fire extinguisher
• If your car catches fire in a tunnel, drive it out if possible, or switch on the hazard lights and try to extinguish the fire if safe to do so

Information Required After a Collision

• Take the name and addresses of other drivers
• Ascertain if the other driver owns the vehicle
• Write down or photograph the make and registration number of the other vehicle
• Obtain details of the other driver’s insurance
• Report the accident to the police if you can’t obtain any information from the other driver

Breakdowns

• If a warning light flashes on the dashboard, check out the problem safely and quickly
• If you break down on a level crossing, get everyone clear of the vehicle and telephone the signal operator
• If a tyre bursts while driving, pull up slowly or let the vehicle roll to a stop, and hold the steering wheel firmly
• If you have a puncture on the motorway, pull on to the hard shoulder and use the emergency phone to ask for assistance
• If oy have a warning triangle, it should be placed 45 metres from the vehicle, but do not use it on a motorway.

Tunnels

• If driving through a congested tunnel, and you have to stop because of traffic ahead, always maintain a safe distance to the vehicle in front
• Take note of any variable message signs that may warn of an incident ahead
• Do not wear sunglasses when driving in a tunnel
• Always use dipped headlights
• If you break down or have a collision in a tunnel, switch off the engine and put on the hazard lights before seeking assistance

Incidents, Accidents and Emergencies Test Tips

The questions in this section basically cover what to do and what not to do at the scene of an accident. Look for answers that avoid making the situation worse for yourself and others.