Road accident – how you can help

The number of people killed as a result of a road accident is falling every year. This is due in large part to improved car safety and driver education. But the numbers are still too high. So it’s sensible to have a clear idea of how to behave if you are involved in a car crash. The actions you take in the first few moments could save someone’s life. Below you’ll find some basic pieces of advice recommended by the British Red Cross.

First, stay calm
Panic is natural following a traumatic event such as a road accident. But it doesn’t help anyone so try to stay calm. First, call an ambulance if anyone has been hurt, and while you are waiting check to see if there are any immediate dangers such as leaking petrol or broken glass and take the appropriate action. Your safety is essential – don’t walk into the road to flag down a passing car. If you need to get someone to stop, signal from a pavement. Unless you are careful, you could end up causing another road accident. It is a good idea to warn other drivers with a hazard triangle if you have one.

How to help an injured person
Only approach someone who is hurt if it is safe for you to do so. Check to see if they are responsive by speaking softly and tapping them gently. Do not move them unless their life is extreme danger from fire or other such factors. If they do not respond then check that their airway is not obstructed by gently tilting their head back. If there is an obstruction such as food or dentures remove it if you can. Check to see if they’re breathing by listening or watching for chest movements. If they are not breathing you may need to resuscitate them. Do not attempt to do anything unless you feel confident in doing it – the ambulance control centre can talk you through necessary techniques.

If they are bleeding
It’s very important to try and control bleeding as it can cause the injured person to go into shock. Where bleeding is severe press a clean piece of cloth onto the wound, raising the limb if you can. If you can find a dressing in a first aid box then use it.

If you’ve had a road accident
If you’ve recently had a road accident that you weren’t to blame for then we can help you get back on track. We can help you by arranging for your vehicle to be repaired and can even arrange for a free replacement vehicle* to keep you mobile. And if you’ve been hurt, then we can help you make a claim for road accident compensation. If the accident wasn’t your fault, then why should you shoulder the burden alone. Call us on 0808 143 4342 or fill in your details on the assessment form and we’ll get back to you.

Click below for more information.

Free replacement car

Help getting your car repaired

Car accident compensation

British Red Cross [www.redcross.org.co.uk]