What to do if you are the first to arrive at the scene of an accident? According to Ergo Rechtsschutz Leistungs-GmbH, in Germany everyone is obliged to provide first aid in an emergency — provided it is reasonable and the first aider does not put themselves in danger.
Those who do not help are therefore punishable under §323c of the Penal Code. In addition, people who hinder first aiders are also punishable by law.
Liability Question
According to the insurance experts, people who provide first aid are liable only in exceptional cases for mistakes — for example in cases of intentional damage or gross negligence such as failing to secure the accident scene. If someone accidentally breaks a rib during an attempt at chest compressions, they are usually not liable.
“Mistakes happen,
but the crucial thing is to act,” explains Sabine Brandl, a lawyer with Ergo Rechtsschutz Leistungs-GmbH.
Safety First
Those giving first aid must first ensure their own safety. An unsecured accident scene can quickly lead to further accidents, so you should assess the situation and identify hazards. These include, for example, flowing traffic, leaking liquids, power lines, or fire. After that you should put on a high-visibility vest, secure the accident scene and help.
“Securing the accident site means turning on the hazard lights, placing a warning triangle, and, if necessary, asking for additional helpers to assist,” says Brandl.
In urban traffic, the warning triangle should be placed 50 meters from the accident scene, on rural roads 100 meters, and on highways at least 150 meters away. In addition, it may be
necessary to move injured persons as far as possible out of the danger zone.
Immediate First-Aid Measures
The legal expert notes that at the scene every minute counts. It is therefore important to stay calm and have a clear head. Whoever is first at the scene should, after securing the accident scene, call the emergency number 112.
“The crucial four W questions are: Where did it happen? What happened? How many people are involved? What injuries are there? In the end, wait for follow-up questions,” explains Brandl.
Thereupon, the first-aid measures should begin, according to the liability insurer, as follows:
- Check breathing and consciousness
- If necessary, perform CPR until the emergency services arrive
- Stop bleeding
- Reassure the affected person and initiate measures to prevent shock
- Place the person in the recovery position
What Matters Is Action
According to Brandl, many people are afraid of doing something wrong. But the biggest risk is doing nothing at all. After an accident, many people are frightened, confused or shocked.In addition, calming words and eye contact could help prevent panic and facilitate initial care. It is also important to proceed systematically and, if necessary, coordinate tasks with other first aiders. Caring for those affected also counts as first aid.
Preparation for Emergencies
A first-aid course teaches all the essential steps, for example the recovery position or placing an emergency call. “Therefore it is advisable to refresh the course every few years,” adds the legal expert.
But practical preparation is also important: A complete first-aid kit must always be in the vehicle, and warning vests should be kept within
