Emergency Care
Road Accident First Aid and the Golden Hour: What Bystanders Can Do
By ATTPL HEALTHCARE Editorial Team · · 2 min read
What to do at a road accident: make the scene safe, call 108 or 112, first aid in the golden hour, and legal protection for Good Samaritans.
Why the golden hour matters
The first hour after a serious injury is often called the golden hour. Quick help — calling an ambulance, controlling bleeding and getting the person to a hospital — can make a major difference to survival.
Step 1: Make the scene safe
Park safely, switch on hazard lights and warn oncoming traffic. Do not put yourself in danger. Switch off the ignition of the crashed vehicle if it is safe to do so.
Step 2: Call for help
Call 108 for an ambulance or 112 for emergency services. Share the exact location, number of injured people and their condition.
Step 3: Basic first aid
- Check if the person is responsive and breathing
- Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth to stop heavy bleeding
- Do not move the person unless there is danger such as fire; keep the head and neck still if a spinal injury is possible
- Do not remove a helmet unless it is blocking breathing
- Keep the person warm and talk to them calmly
- Do not give food or water
Legal protection for Good Samaritans
The Motor Vehicles Act protects Good Samaritans who help accident victims in good faith. They cannot be forced to disclose their identity or be held liable for civil or criminal action for helping. Hospitals cannot detain them or demand payment.
Learn first aid
Basic first-aid and CPR training helps you act confidently. ATTPL Health supports health awareness. Companies that run vehicle fleets can also review driver safety practices with ATTPL Fleet.
Frequently asked questions
Which number should I call?
Call 108 for an ambulance or 112 for emergency services.
Will I be harassed by police if I help?
The law protects Good Samaritans; you are not required to share your identity and cannot be held liable for helping in good faith.
Sources and further reading
This article is for general awareness. It is not a substitute for formal first-aid training or medical advice.