First Aid & Breakdown Safety (what to do after an accident)

This guide explains the most important Dutch theory points about first aid and breakdown safety: securing the scene, protecting passengers, calling emergency services, warning other traffic, and understanding your duties after an accident.

Why this topic matters

First-aid and breakdown questions are not only about helping injured people. They also test whether you know how to keep yourself and others safe after a breakdown or accident, especially on fast roads such as motorways.

Key rules in 60 seconds

What the exam asks most often

• What should you do first after an accident?
• Where is the safest place to wait after a motorway breakdown?
• When should you call 112?
• How should you warn approaching traffic?
• What are your duties after an accident?

Detailed guide

What to do after an accident

Step 1 — Make the situation safer

• Turn on your hazard warning lights.
• If possible and safe, move the vehicle to a safer location.
• Keep yourself visible and stay away from passing traffic.

Step 2 — Check people first

• Check whether anyone is injured or unconscious.
• Keep injured persons calm and protect them from further danger.
• If the situation is urgent, call 112.

Step 3 — Warn other traffic

• If your vehicle creates a danger, warn approaching traffic in time.
• This is often done with hazard lights, and if necessary with a warning triangle.
• Always put your own safety first when deciding whether to place a triangle.

Step 4 — Call for help

• Call 112 when every second counts, for example if there are injuries or immediate danger.
• For a normal breakdown without immediate danger, contact roadside assistance.

Step 5 — Exchange details

• Exchange identity, vehicle, and insurance details where relevant.
• If safe, take photos and complete an accident statement form if available.

Motorway breakdown safety

On a motorway, the greatest danger often comes from passing traffic. That is why the safest action is usually to stop as far right as possible, leave the car on the right side, and wait behind the crash barrier or in another protected place.

Where should you wait?

• Behind the crash barrier if there is one.
• If there is no barrier, stand in the safest place away from traffic.
• Never remain standing next to the vehicle in a dangerous position.

Should you stay in the car?

• Usually not on a motorway breakdown.
• Leaving the vehicle is often safer, unless moving someone would create a greater danger.

Warning triangle and hazard lights

In the Netherlands, the key rule is that approaching road users must be warned in time if your stationary vehicle forms a danger. This can be done with hazard lights or with a warning triangle.

• A warning triangle is useful when your vehicle may not be seen in time.
• If hazard lights are already flashing, a triangle is generally not required.
• Only place a triangle if doing so is safe for you.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Standing next to the car on the hard shoulder.
• Focusing on the vehicle instead of getting people to safety first.
• Calling 112 for a normal, non-urgent breakdown.
• Trying to place a warning triangle when that puts you in danger.
• Leaving the scene too early when help or details are still needed.

Quick FAQ

Relevant Dutch law and rules

• WVW 1994, Art. 7: leaving the scene after an accident is prohibited in situations covered by the law.
• RVV 1990, Art. 58: approaching traffic must be warned in time if a stationary motor vehicle on more than two wheels or a trailer forms an obstacle; hazard lights can replace a warning triangle.
• General road safety principle: always avoid creating extra danger while helping or warning others.