Wreckage, the sight of injuries, the sound of revving engines or screaming people and the smell of petrol can all conspire to shake you. But remember, you are there and your help could be crucial to the outcome of the accident.
You can only do your best
Take a few deep breaths or count to ten to stay calm. The calmer you are, the better prepared you’ll be to handle the situation. All you can do is your best. So try to remember and work through the following:
General crash scene procedure
1. Assess those injured
- Reassure them - they are likely to be confused and/or anxious
- Don't place yourself between an undeployed airbag and an injured or trapped person - these can deploy with force some minutes after a crash, injuring both of you
- Only move injured people if they are in danger
2. Call 111 for an ambulance
Be as precise as possible about your location. Ask others if you are unsure where you are.
3. Secure the scene
- If it is safe to do so, turn off the ignition of all vehicles involved in the crash
- Warn approaching traffic if the crashed rider or bike are still on the road: turn on headlights, indicator lights or hazard lights up to 200 metres away
- Assess the fire risk and make sure no one smokes: petrol leaks are highly likely
4. Check breathing
Look, listen and feel for breathing. If not present, start CPR.
5. Stop the bleeding
- Apply pressure to the wound, preferably with thick, folded fabric, such as a towel or an item of clothing
- Raise the part of the body that is bleeding if you can. This makes it harder for blood to be pumped out of the wound
6. Provide comfort
- Support broken limbs
- Drape the injured person with a blanket or jacket if cold
- Never give accident victims food or drink
Removing helmets
- Lift the visor of a helmet wearer, but do not remove the helmet unless the person is vomiting or has stopped breathing
- You may loosen or cut the chin strap if this aids breathing
- If you must remove a helmet, have one person support and immobilise the head and neck with both hands, while another gently lifts the helmet off from the back
