1
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT
Take note that nothing in this booklet constitutes legal advice or advice of any kind.
Readers must consult official and alternative sources before making any decisions based
on the information provided herein. Templates and examples provided by us are merely a
guideline and nothing more. We will not accept any liability whatsoever.
Take note further that this booklet is intended for personal use only and that the
unauthorized sharing hereof is prohibited.
, 2
1. Introduction
In these notes, I will be providing some much-needed practical information on
the steps one must follow if they have just been in a car accident (once the initial
shock has alleviated slightly).
2. Stay at the scene and check that everyone is okay
If you have just been in a vehicle collision, stop your car, turn on your hazards,
and place a visible item (preferably an emergency triangle) on the road several
metres before your vehicle to warn other road users that same is stationary.
Once you have exited your vehicle, make sure that everyone involved in the
accident is okay.
If there are any injuries, even minor, make sure emergency services are
contacted so that an ambulance can be sent to the scene. Do not move any
injured persons (unless you absolutely have to) and only administer first aid if
you are qualified to do so.
When contacting emergency services, give the operator your name, number,
location and details of the accident, including the number of people injured.
NB - if any commuters or pedestrians have been injured/killed, and/or if any
vehicles and/or other property (including animals) has been damaged, do not
leave the scene until the police have permitted you to do so! Doing so is a criminal
offence.
In this regard, make sure that someone calls the police, if not done already. You
should also call the police if you suspect any of the drivers involved in the
accident are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT
Take note that nothing in this booklet constitutes legal advice or advice of any kind.
Readers must consult official and alternative sources before making any decisions based
on the information provided herein. Templates and examples provided by us are merely a
guideline and nothing more. We will not accept any liability whatsoever.
Take note further that this booklet is intended for personal use only and that the
unauthorized sharing hereof is prohibited.
, 2
1. Introduction
In these notes, I will be providing some much-needed practical information on
the steps one must follow if they have just been in a car accident (once the initial
shock has alleviated slightly).
2. Stay at the scene and check that everyone is okay
If you have just been in a vehicle collision, stop your car, turn on your hazards,
and place a visible item (preferably an emergency triangle) on the road several
metres before your vehicle to warn other road users that same is stationary.
Once you have exited your vehicle, make sure that everyone involved in the
accident is okay.
If there are any injuries, even minor, make sure emergency services are
contacted so that an ambulance can be sent to the scene. Do not move any
injured persons (unless you absolutely have to) and only administer first aid if
you are qualified to do so.
When contacting emergency services, give the operator your name, number,
location and details of the accident, including the number of people injured.
NB - if any commuters or pedestrians have been injured/killed, and/or if any
vehicles and/or other property (including animals) has been damaged, do not
leave the scene until the police have permitted you to do so! Doing so is a criminal
offence.
In this regard, make sure that someone calls the police, if not done already. You
should also call the police if you suspect any of the drivers involved in the
accident are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
