What to do if you witness a car accident

There are reports of car accidents every single day and emergency services are seen whizzing past almost every hour. To witness an accident it horrific and traumatising.  But do you know the correct procedure to follow if you are a witness of an accident?

READ: What to do in an accident

Step 1: Don’t put yourself in danger. If you do see a car wreck, pull over safely. Don’t cause another accident by trying to help someone and remember to put your hazard lights on.

Step 2: Call local authorities. Every person should have the emergency number saved on their phone- 10111. ER24 has their own national number 084 124. When you do call, make sure you have the following information on hand: 

• Your telephone number (to remain in contact with you should you be cut off)
• Your location (street name and nearest cross road)
• The details of what has happened, how many people are injured, whether there is a fire.

Step 3: Do not move the patient. If you see that there are injured people, don’t attempt to move them, rather wait for the ambulance to arrive. The least you can do it to keep them calm in their situation.

Step 4: Report. Give a detailed report to the authorities of what you saw. Be available for any questioning.

For more information, visit Arrive Alive