I was driving round the M25 and there was an accident in front of me, I could still get round so I slowed down, put hazards on but drove past and carried on my way.

What’s the actual protocol in those situations? I could see all the airbags were deployed, there’s nothing I could do for the people inside and for sure getting out on a motorway is a bad idea.

But I feel like I should have done something different. Can anyone with knowledge enlighten me?

  • GBU_28@lemm.eeEnglish
    41·
    9 months ago

    Former non uk firefighter here:

    Rule number one is don’t worsen or add to an existing accident. If you can’t be absolutely sure traffic has safely stopped and is blocked, don’t get out. Not only can someone get hurt, but if there is another accident it can worsen the access to the first, potentially more serious event. Even then car wrecks themselves are dangerous. If you are capable of providing aid, be sure not to injure yourself in the process.

    Calling 911 as soon as possible is best (safely). You could drive past and pull over, well ahead.

    Ultimately use these notes as guidelines. You will have to use your judgement, and may one-day decide the potential outweighes the risks, and you’ll only have you to argue with in that moment

      • TWeaKEnglish
        2·
        9 months ago

        911 works also, but yes it’s supposed to be 999.

          • TWeaKEnglish
            2·
            9 months ago

            Just a sensible solution by the UK for dealing with stupid Americans. A bit like how Japan has a hotline for Japanese people in Paris having panic attacks over how filthy the place is.

            • Devi@kbin.social
              2·
              9 months ago

              We have all of the other emergency numbers too, cause tourists in an emergency don’t think.