Coming across the aftermath of a car accident can be a very difficult experience for many people, but remaining cool and calm can ultimately save lives. Here are the five things that you need to know in order to deal with such a situation.
First On The Scene
If you are the first person to come across the scene of a car accident, your instinctive reaction may be to stop and assist. However, before you exit your own vehicle to assist other people, it is paramount that you first make sure it is safe to do so. If the traffic behind you has not yet stopped and there are other vehicles approaching, make sure that you reduce your speed gradually and use your hazard lights to indicate to other drivers that there is a hazard ahead.
If Someone Isn’t Moving
If you come across someone who is completely unresponsive, you need to ascertain whether they are breathing or not. If you think someone is seriously injured, it is better to leave them where they are, provided that it is safe to do so.
If Someone Is Unresponsive But Breathing
Once you have ascertained that the unresponsive person is still breathing, you should put them into the recovery position.
Whenever you are dealing with someone who has been potentially seriously injured in a car crash, you should aim to move them as little as possible.
If Someone Is NOT Breathing
If you come across a car crash victim who is not breathing, you need to administer first aid. However, you should not remove any seriously injured person from their vehicle unless they are in immediate danger.
Phone 911 straight away and explain the scene in front of you to them. They will be able to advise you as to the best course of action and can walk you through CPR if necessary.
If You Are The Victim of a Car Accident
If you are the person who has been injured in a car accident but you are still conscious and relatively unscathed, it is important that you react appropriately. First and foremost – do not panic. It is natural to feel shaken and scared following a car accident, but you need to be able to keep your cool and keep yourself safe.
If you think that you might have a neck or spinal injury, then you should remain as still as possible and summon emergency services. However, if you are uninjured or your vehicle has come to rest in a dangerous spot, you should exit the vehicle and find a safe place to wait for the emergency services.
If the accident is the fault of another driver or pedestrian, you may well be able to file a claim for compensation. According to Jason Stephens, a personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth, TX, “Compensation money after a car accident can be used to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s a good idea to consult with a qualified attorney in order to ensure that you have a valid case that is worth pursuing.”
Knowing what to do in the aftermath of a car accident can be the difference between life and death – for you and other people. Every driver should be prepared for this eventuality, the five tips above are an excellent starting point.