If you have witnessed a car accident and there are people who are injured, it’s natural to want to help them. However, when approaching the scene of a vehicle accident, it’s important to be cautious.
Before you try to help someone, call 911. If someone is seriously injured, there is nothing you will be able to do to help them. Getting the fire department, paramedics and police there as quickly as possible is the most important and helpful thing you can do.
Once you have called 911, survey the accident to see if there are any other potential dangers that could arise from this accident. Is the car smoking? Did they hit a power pole? Is there gasoline leaking from the car? Any of these could be dangerous and could end up hurting more people other than just those involved in the accident.
If you feel that it is unsafe for you to be near the accident, stay back and keep others back as well. This will not only keep you and others safe, but will allow the authorities to help those who are already injured more quickly.
This news story is a prime example of why it’s important to approach car accidents with caution.