What to do if you’re in an accident

ACCIDENTS do happen, unfortunately.

Here are a few things you should remember to do when you are involved in a crash:

• If possible, immediately switch on your hazard lights and move your vehicle out of harm’s way. If you are unable to move your vehicle, get all your (uninjured) passengers out of the car and out of danger.

• Make sure nobody is injured. If there are any injuries, call for medical assistance. Speak clearly and tell the operator exactly where you are, how many patients are injured and how badly they are injured.

• Do not move injured patients, unless absolutely necessary – for example the vehicle is on fire. If someone is bleeding profusely, apply pressure to the wound, wearing a pair of surgical gloves. If you don’t have gloves, use a peace of clean cloth. Keep the patient calm and reassure them that help is on the way.

• If you have collided with another vehicle, write down all the necessary details of the other driver. You need his/her name, address and contact details. Also get the person’s ID number, driver’s licence number, vehicle registration number, as well as the make and colour of the vehicle.

• Note down important details such as time of the accident, location and the number of passengers and/or people involved in the crash.

• If you are able to do so, take photos of the accident scene and the damage to all the vehicles involved.

• All accidents must be reported to the police, no matter how slight the damage. Be honest when giving your statement.

ALSO READ: Fatal accident brings N2 to a standstill

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 072 069 4169

Instagram – zululand_observer