With increased holiday travel expected across South Africa, experts provide crucial advice for motorists who may encounter road accidents
As the holiday season approaches, South African roads are set to see a significant increase in traffic, bringing with it a heightened risk of motor vehicle accidents. Being first on the scene can be frightening, but knowing proper response procedures could save lives.
Immediate Safety and Assessment
The first priority is safety. Switch on hazard lights immediately and stop in a secure location, ideally off to the side of the road and in front of the accident to keep the path clear for emergency vehicles. On blind rises or bends, parking behind the accident in a “fend-off” position may help prevent further collisions.
For minor accidents, apply the handbrake and activate hazard lights. If there are no serious injuries, move vehicles to the roadside. When vehicles cannot be moved, place warning triangles 45-100 metres behind the scene.
Major accidents may present additional hazards including smoke or steam. Contrary to popular belief, explosions are rare unless flames are present. Should fire occur, use sand or a fire extinguisher—water will not help.
Avoid moving injured persons unless absolutely necessary, such as when a vehicle is burning. If movement is essential, place injured parties on level ground and keep them still.
Emergency Contact and Assistance
Dial 112, the global emergency number for all mobile phones in South Africa. This connects callers to police, ambulance, and fire brigade services, operating via satellite even without mobile coverage. Alternative numbers include 10111 for police and 10177 for ambulance services.
Provide essential information: your name and contact number, location, description of events, and the number of vehicles and people involved. For remote locations, reference route marker boards—blue-and-white boards positioned every 200 metres along national roads.
Even those without medical training can assist. Calm and reassure those involved whilst emphasising that emergency services are en route. Encourage injured persons to remain still. For bleeding injuries, apply pressure using available cloth without lifting it. Cover fuel spills with sand to prevent fire and slip hazards. Disconnect vehicle batteries to eliminate spark risks.
Documentation and Preparation
Exchange information with other drivers and document scenes photographically when possible—including vehicles, number plates, licence discs, and road conditions.
Do not offer food or drink to seriously injured persons, as they may require immediate surgery. Wait for police dismissal if anyone has been hurt.
Experts recommend maintaining an emergency kit including first aid supplies, rubber gloves, water, a torch, emergency contact numbers, and seatbelt cutters. Medical information should be readily accessible via windscreen stickers or mobile phone emergency settings.
“If you’re taking to the roads this holiday season, drive safely, keep these tips in mind for emergencies, and remember that vehicle tracking technologies can help keep you and your family safe,” says Duma Ngcobo, Chief Operating Officer at Tracker.
“Some tracking services include impact detection, which instantly alerts the control centre if your vehicle is in an accident—providing support when you need it most.”
As South Africans prepare for holiday travel, these emergency response guidelines could prove the difference between life and death on the nation’s roads.
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