What to Do After a Road Accident

According to the MoRTH road accident report 2023, we lost 1,72,890 lives, which is approximately 36% (35.98%) of 4,80,583 accidents (Total accidents reported in 2023); both numbers are significantly higher than they should be. Even then, when we see an accident happen, we either freeze or simply walk away. But for how long can we keep ignoring it?

The truth is, the golden hour is precious, and if you know the basics of First Aid, you could save a life. Yes, a doctor or a professional is vital in saving a life, but a calm mind and some simple steps could do wonders. Here's a complete, conversational guide you can actually use if you ever face such a situation.

First Things First: Safety & Mindset

Carry a First-Aid kit while travelling - Your life is in your hands. Carrying a first aid kit is mandatory whenever you travel or embark on a journey.
Your safety comes first - Make sure the scene is safe (no fast-moving traffic, fire, exposed wires, etc.). Don't put yourself in danger.
Protection - If available, use gloves or a face shield when handling blood.
Consent - If the person is conscious, ask before helping ("Can I help you?").

Step 1 – Call for Help

If you see an accident: Immediately dial 112 and share the location of the incident, the number of injured people, and their condition (breathing/bleeding).

If you have a smartphone, use live location sharing or the 112 India app.

Download the app from:

Ask bystanders to help: Someone can get a clean cloth, control traffic, or guide the ambulance.

Step 2 – ABC Check (Airway, Breathing, Circulation)

Video Reference: Watch ABC Check Tutorial

This is the heart of first aid.

A – Airway

If the person is unconscious, gently tilt the head back and lift the chin to keep the airway open (unless you suspect a spinal injury).

Important: If you suspect a neck or spinal injury, for example, after a high-speed collision, a serious fall, or a blow to the head, do not attempt to move or tilt the person's head, as even small movements can worsen the damage. In such cases, airway management becomes more complex and should be handled only by trained medical professionals equipped to stabilize the spine while ensuring the person can breathe.

B – Breathing

Look, listen, and feel for breathing.

If there's no normal breathing, start CPR right away.

C – Circulation

Check for major bleeding. If present, control it immediately (see next step).

Step 3 – CPR (If the Victim is Not Breathing)

If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally:

Chest compressions: Position the base of your palm in the center of the chest, lock your elbows, and press hard and fast, 100-120 compressions per minute, at a depth of 5-6 cm (adults).
Rescue breaths: Give 30 compressions, followed by 2 breaths.
If you're not trained or not comfortable giving breaths, do hands-only CPR (continuous compressions).
Don't stop until professional help arrives or the person shows signs of life.

Video Tutorial: Learn CPR Step by Step

Pro tip: keep the beat of "Stayin' Alive" in your head for the right rhythm.

Step 4 – Control Bleeding

Heavy bleeding can be fatal.

Apply direct, firm pressure with a clean cloth, gauze bandage, or even a handkerchief.
If an object is stuck inside the wound (like glass or metal), do not remove it. Instead, place padding around it to stabilize until help arrives.
For severe limb bleeding that won't stop with pressure, a trained person may use a tourniquet.

Step 5 – If Unconscious but Breathing: Recovery Position

If the victim is unconscious but still breathing, place them in the recovery position (lying on their side, with head tilted slightly back) so their airway stays clear and they don't choke if they vomit.

Be extra cautious if you suspect spinal injury; minimize movement.

Step 6 – Helmets & Seatbelts

Helmet:

If the rider is breathing and conscious, do not remove the helmet; it supports the neck. Only remove it if the person isn't breathing and CPR is necessary, and ideally with two people carefully supporting the head and neck.

Seatbelt:

Only cut/remove a seatbelt if the person is trapped in a dangerous situation (fire, drowning). Otherwise, let professionals handle it.

Step 7 – Stay Calm & Comfort

Stay calm, your reassurance makes a huge difference.
Keep the person warm (cover with a jacket/blanket).
Do not give food or water to an unconscious person.
Note important details: time of accident, first aid given, any changes in breathing, as this helps doctors later.

Basic First Aid Kit Essentials

A small kit in your car or bag can save precious time. Here's what it should include:

Sterile bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape
Roller bandage
Surgical tape
Crepe bandage
Cold pack, thermal blanket
Transparent film dressing with non-adherent pad
Non-woven cohesive moderate compression bandage
Sterile dressing kits
Elastic adhesive bandage
Flexible splints (small/medium/large)

Quick Cheat Sheet (to Remember in the Moment)

Scene safe → Call 112 → ABC check → Stop bleeding → If no breathing, CPR → Keep calm until ambulance arrives.

Conclusion

The biggest mistake in an accident is panic and inaction. With these simple steps, you can bridge the gap until professional help arrives.

Let's commit to not just keeping ourselves safe with helmets and seatbelts, but also being prepared to help others.

Remember: The right action at the right time can save a life.