Advice to public when witnessing a road traffic collision

DO'S

1. If you witness or find a Road Traffic Collision that requires the attendance of the emergency services DO ensure someone calls 999 to make contact with the emergency services. If you are not sure if this has been done do it yourself.

2. If you are at the scene of a Road Traffic Collision, DO be aware of the danger to other road users. Use your vehicle's position and hazard warning lights to warn others of the possible danger.

3. DO check on the condition of any injured person(s). Ensure they are as safe as possible from other road users. Relay the seriousness of any injuries over the telephone to the operator.

4. If you have called the emergency services, (especially on a mobile phone) DO stay in the location you have given until we have made contact with you. If the collision is in a remote location we may be relying on you to help us locate it quickly.

5. DO stop at the scene until you have spoken with a Police Officer if you are a witness to a collision. They may not take a statement until a later date but you may be able to provide vital information.

6. DO make a note of a vehicles registered number if you see a vehicle making off from the scene of an collision when it should have stopped. The make, model and colour of the vehicle as well as a description of the driver should also be noted. Write this information down as soon as possible.

7. DO always place yourself and others well clear of the carriageway whenever practical. This is particularly important on motorways where it is much safer to be out of the vehicle and as far away from the carriageway as possible.

DON’TS

1. DON’T attempt to move any casualties (unless a life is in immediate danger if not moved), make them as comfortable as possible.

2. DON’T offer or allow any casualties to eat or drink this could affect further medical treatment.

3. DON’T attempt to move any of the vehicles involved.

4. DON’T move or clean up any debris.

5. DON’T be the cause of a second collision by allowing a collision to distract you. If you are not involved and are not required to assist, pass by with as little fuss as possible. Remember to drive in a manner that affords safety to the collision scene.

6. DON’T offer or allow consumption of alcohol by any of the persons involved in the collision, especially the drivers of the vehicles.