Each year, South African statistics show some of the world's worst road accidents. It's especially noteworthy that these incidents spike during the festive season in December and into the new year more than any other time of the year.
With that in mind, there are ways to prepare for these situations and steps you can take to help if an accident does occur, as well as actions to take if you are involved in the accident yourself. Remember to keep safe driving tips in mind to reduce the likelihood of accidents, especially when travelling with others.
Steps to take following a road accident
While we get to grips with how to handle the situation after an accident, it’s important to understand why it happens so frequently on our roads.
With driving comes risks, and they’re everywhere, yet preventable. According to Stats SA, road accidents are linked to human error, failing infrastructure, defects of the driver’s vehicle, and environmental conditions. Where human factors are concerned, this includes and is not limited to: speeding, drunk driving, fatigue and texting, etc.
From 2023/2024, findings showed that up to 86% of accidents were attributed to human-related factors, while the remaining incidents were a result of weather-related factors, poor road conditions, improper signage, and close contact with pedestrians and cyclists.
A guide on what you should do next
Responding to a car accident can be stressful on emotional, mental, and financial levels. It’s even more overwhelming when you see someone—or multiple people—who appear to need urgent assistance, and you’re uncertain about what to do. Consider these tips if you find yourself in a fender bender or witness a more serious accident, so the process can proceed swiftly and smoothly, giving you greater peace of mind.
Switch off your vehicle and remain at the scene
This step is crucial: never continue driving after making contact with another vehicle. If possible, move your vehicle off the main road, switch on your hazard lights, and place your safety triangle in a visible spot for other drivers.
Remember to take photos and/or note the positions of all vehicles and the extent of damage to each. In the event that any bystanders or pedestrians have been injured, South African road law requires that you remain at the scene until the police arrive.
Check on injured persons and assist where possible
The moral obligation here is to offer some level of support to help if you see that another party is injured in the accident, whether that means contacting the police, ambulance service, and/or rescue team. One important rule is to never attempt to perform or administer first aid or to move an injured pers
Getting the details
While it may seem tedious and a bit tiring after experiencing or witnessing an accident, details matter the most for financial and legal reasons.
Here’s what you’ll need from the other persons involved:
- Full name
- ID number
- Address
- Car registration
- Cellphone and other contacts
- Insurance details
- Model, colour, and make of the vehicle
- Date and time of the accident
- Details of eyewitnesses
File an accident report
If the police arrive on scene, don’t attempt to move any floating objects or items until they’ve finished with their investigation. You’ll need a report number for any insurance claims you want to submit.
Be sure to file a police report within 24 hours of the accident.
Driving safety tips
Not everything is in our control, but driving responsibly is. You may not think twice about some of these tips, but they’ll make the world of a difference when you’re commuting.
Dealing with heavy traffic
Expect the unexpected, or drive defensively to avoid colliding with other motorists, especially if you can see that they’re not driving responsibly.
Keep distractions at bay
Be alert and stay focused when you’re out on the road. Avoid adjusting your infotainment centre while on the move and keep your phone away.
Plan your route ahead of time
If you can, try to plan your route in advance and leave at a reasonable time so that you can avoid heavy traffic and have peace of mind on your journey.
Maintain enough distance
Keeping a safe distance will give you enough time to react should you need to. The safest following distance is remaining 3 seconds behind the car that is ahead of you.
Stick to the speed limit or maintain a safe speed
Always leave enough time and space to manoeuvre should you need to. Following closely behind a vehicle will spell disaster should they come to an immediate stop.
Stay level-headed
Road rage and aggressive driving can add to a long day while also increasing your fuel consumption more than necessary—due to stopping and starting, revving, riding the clutch, etc.
Fix any tyre punctures or defects
Avoid tyre blowouts by keeping your tyre pressure at the right level and check that they’re not punctured or damaged.
Stay safe on the roads
While you’re on the road, putting these tips into practice could be life-saving for you and other drivers. Remember, the rules of the road exist for a reason. Stay alert, stay calm, and ensure you have the right essentials for your car, no matter where you’re headed or coming from.
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