By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
We’ve all been there, traffic suddenly slows down, and as you inch forward, you realise it’s because of an accident on the opposite side of the road. While its human nature to be curious, sometimes that curiosity causes more harm than good. Slowing down or stopping to look can create more traffic, distract other drivers, and even cause new accidents. With the rainy season making roads trickier, it’s more important than ever to stay calm, alert, and considerate. Road safety starts with how we behave, not just when we drive, but also when we witness others in distress.
Here’s how to handle yourself safely and smartly when you come across an accident scene.
Keep It Moving
If the accident does not involve you and you’re not calling for help or offering direct assistance, keep driving. Slowing down to record videos or take pictures only distracts you and other drivers, causing bottlenecks and sometimes more accidents. The best help you can give is to stay alert and keep traffic flowing smoothly.
Give Emergency Vehicles the Right of Way
If you arrive before emergency services and wish to help, park safely away from the scene. Do not block access routes or park illegally near the crash site — ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles need space to operate. Imagine how frustrating it would be if your car was blocking their way when seconds matter most.
Prioritise Safety and Signal the Scene
Before you do anything else, ensure your own safety. Switch on your hazard lights and headlights to make your vehicle visible. Place a reflective triangle at a safe distance behind your car to warn other drivers. These small actions can prevent additional collisions and make you part of the solution.
Call for Help and Be Specific
Sometimes the best help is a calm, detailed call. Contact emergency services
immediately and share accurate information about the accident — including the location, number of vehicles involved, and visible injuries if possible. Keep key numbers saved on your phone: Ambulance services 10177, Police 10111 or dial 112 from any cellphone network for emergency assistance.
Don’t Move the Injured
Unless there’s an immediate danger (like fire or explosion), do not move injured people. You could worsen spinal or internal injuries without realising it. If you’re not a medical professional, your role is to keep them calm, covered, and still until help arrives.
Stay Calm and Avoid the Crowd
Crowding around an accident scene helps no one. It increases the risk of being hit by oncoming traffic and creates confusion for rescuers. Maintain a safe distance and, if possible, help direct bystanders away until authorities take over.
Be a Responsible Witness
If you actually witnessed the accident, stay on site until police arrive — your account may be valuable. Give a clear, factual statement and then leave promptly once you’re no longer needed.
Show Humanity, Not Hysteria
An accident scene is not entertainment. It’s a moment that could define someone’s life forever. Whether you’re driving past or offering help, respect the scene and those affected. The real mark of a good driver isn’t curiosity, it’s compassion paired with caution.
