Accidents

Chapter Summary: Accidents

Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death and injury, especially for young people, but the vast majority are predictable and preventable. The primary cause, responsible for 70-90% of incidents, is the human factor, which includes speeding, distractions, and other risky behaviors. The other contributing factors are the vehicle and the road environment. Accidents most frequently occur during holidays, weekends, and daily commuting times.

Certain road users are particularly vulnerable. These include pedestrians, especially children and the elderly, and riders of two-wheeled vehicles. For motorcyclists, moped riders, and cyclists, head injuries are the most severe risk, making helmet use critically important. Not wearing a helmet is a leading cause of death for motorcyclists. The consequences of accidents are severe, resulting in immense human, healthcare, material, and administrative costs that affect all of society.

In the event of an accident, every driver must know how to act by following the PAS rule: Protect, Alert, and Assist. First, Protect the scene to prevent further incidents by securing the vehicles. Second, Alert the emergency services by dialing the universal, free number 112. Finally, Assist the victims, which is a legal obligation unless professional help is already on site.

When assisting, crucial rules must be followed to avoid causing more harm. Do not move an injured person unless their life is in immediate danger. Never give victims food, drink, or medication. Most importantly, as a strict general rule, you must never remove the helmet from an injured motorcyclist, as this can cause irreversible spinal damage. Only properly trained emergency personnel should perform such a maneuver.