Behaviour at Accidents

Stop immediately

Every person involved in an accident must stop immediately. This applies even to pure property damage. Driving off after an accident is a hit-and-run – a serious offence.

Secure the scene

Secure the scene so that no follow-on accident occurs:

• Switch on the hazard warning lights.

• Put on the high-visibility vest before getting out – especially on motorways and in the dark.

• Place the warning triangle clearly visible at the roadside: on motorways and semi-motorways at least 100 metres before the scene, in built-up areas far enough to warn following traffic in good time.

Give first aid

Injured people must be helped immediately – this is a duty for everyone present, not only those involved. Get an overview, give first aid within your means (secure breathing, stop bleeding, reassure) and alert the emergency services.

Raise the alarm correctly

State: Where? What? How many injured? What injuries?

Personal injury and property damage

• Personal injury: always call the police. Until they arrive, do not disturb the evidence.

• Property damage: you must notify the injured party immediately. If that is not possible (e.g. a damaged parked car, nobody present), you inform the police without delay. A note on the windscreen is not enough.