Road Incident Protocol : What to Do After a Collision

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Highway Code Rule 283

📖 Rule 283 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 283 ↗
If you are involved in an incident or collision or stop to give assistance

if possible, stop in a place of relative safety (see Rule 275 ↗)
use your hazard warning lights to warn other traffic
put on high-visibility clothing if you have it
ask drivers to switch off their engines
ask drivers and passengers to stop smoking
contact the emergency services on 999 and provide full details of the incident location and any casualties. Use an emergency telephone, a mobile telephone, or press the SOS button if your vehicle has one (see Rule 277 ↗ on how to identify your location on a motorway or other high-speed road)
move uninjured people away from the vehicles to a place of relative safety (see Rule 275 ↗)
DO NOT move injured people from their vehicles unless they are in immediate danger
DO NOT remove a motorcyclist’s helmet unless it is essential and you are trained to do so
be prepared to give first aid (see First aid on the road and Useful websites)
stay at the scene until the emergency services arrive
be prepared to exchange details (see Rule 286 ↗).
If you are involved in any other medical emergency, you should contact the emergency services in the same way.

Text shown in the rule image

Road Incident Protocol : What to Do After a Collision

ALERTING EMERGENCY SERVICES

Secure a Safe Stopping Point

Stop in a place of relative safety , if possible , maneuver your vehicle away from active traffic to a safer location before exiting .

MANAGING CASUALTIES AND PEOPLE

Relocate the Uninjured

Move uninjured people to a place of relative safety . Ensure those who are fit to move are taken away from the vehicles and active traffic lanes .

Alert Oncoming Traffic

Activate hazard warning lights immediately . Use your vehicle's hazards to warn other drivers of the obstruction or incident shead .

Contact 999

Provide full incident and location details . Call 999 using a mobile .

Enhance Visibility Put en high - visibility clothing . If available , wear reflective gear to ensure you are seen by other motorists , especially in low - light conditions .

Identify Your Exact Location Use motorway markers to pinpoint your position . Specific location data is vital for high - speed meds and motorways to help services reach you faster .

Emergency Catlualties

CONCLUSION OF THE INCIDENT

The " No Move " Rule for Injured DO NOT move injured people from their vehicles . Only move an injured person if they are in immediate danger ; otherwise , wait for professional medical assistance .

Motorcyclist Safety Protocol

DO NOT remove a motorcyclist's helmet . Only remove a helmet if it is absolutely essential and you have been specifically trained to do so .

Scene Retention

Stay at the scene until services arrive . You must remain at the site of the incident until the emergency services have officially taken over .

Eliminate Fire Risks

Engines off and no smoking . Ask all drivers to switch off their engines and ensure that no drivers or passengers are smoking near the incident .

Provide First Aid Be prepared to administer first aid . Provide assistance to the level of your training while waiting for the emergency services to arrive .

Information Exchange

Exchange details with involved parties . Be prepared to provide and receive insurance and contact information as required by road rules .