Saw an accident. Got a question.

Never heard of this law in my life. Probably snake oil if you ask me. However a written law on paper and what we are obligated as human beings to do are 2 different things.

I should watch as I say that. Forget good people are few and far between now days.

 

It's not a law, but a good thing to do, especially if you have some rescue training. Sometimes we see accidents and help is a long ways away, what you can do may save someone's life. One thing to do, if you are on the phone with 911, tell them if there are any head, neck or back injuries or if extracation equipment is needed. This can help speed up what equipment is needed.

 

i seem to remember when i was taking drivers ed in school. that leaving the scene of an accident was against the law.

but that hasn't appeared to be the case.

 

Sounds like the "truck drivers are only allowed to have white sheets for bedding law"..

Good job stopping and offering assistance though, most people nowadays drive on by.

 

That law only exists for medical personnel. If they have any paraphernalia on their vehicle they can be reported. At least it was that way in '88 when I went through EMT training.

 

I don't think we are obligated but it is a very good thing to do! I am emergency trained, I can assist without being sued, It is the Helpful motorist act that protects me from helping someone and then being sued, I keep my First Aid up and my CPR card handy, I normally stop especially if I am one of the first on scene! I always carry a couple extra older blankets along with me to give to the injured so they can stay warm and not go into shock. I go to the Thrift Stores on Dollar Days and buy a few Blankets when I can, I have been Thanked many many times for stopping and helping, I try to keep the scene clear of lots of people, We are among the few in these days that give a rats bottom about our fellow man!

 

leaving the scene of an accident refers to the individuals involved in the accident. We are not required to stop and render aid. But it is the right thing to do!

 

There is no regulation that I am aware of or a law specific to truckers. The closest regulation is you must abide by state and local laws. So I guess it would depend on the state. It seems I read the same thing in one of the many states I've lived in. I think medical personnel that happen to come by are legally required to aide any victims.

Sometimes you can create more problems and additional accidents by stopping. Especially slamming on the brakes in front of someone else. If you are not medically trained you can possibly worsen the injuries. If you block traffic medical personnel might have a hard time getting through.

The IL CDL manual says only to stop if you can safely do so and to protect the scene as to not cause an additional accident. As far as first aide I would only attempt to apply direct pressure if they were bleeding and cover with a blanket if they are in shock. As a last resort CPR or move the victim as in a car fire you have to. Leave the less than imminent danger to the trained.

You have to remember as a trucker there are specialized lawyers waiting for us to make one wrong mistake. Sometimes adrenaline takes over. I would think the most important thing a trucker can do is call 911 and get help rolling as quick as possible if you stop or not. As a first responder I would stop. I wouldn't if there is already sufficient help there as you just congest the scene.

 

This law only applies if you happen to be driving through Latham, Massachusetts.

("Like" this, if you know what I'm referring to, lol)