Emergency Awareness
- 1/24If your vehicle breaks down on a motorway, the first thing to do is
Switch on your hazard lights and move passengers to a safe location. Use an emergency phone if available.
In the event of brake failure, you should first
This may restore enough pressure to stop the car. Shift to a lower gear and use the handbrake gradually.
When involved in a collision with injuries, the law requires you to
Failing to stop is a criminal offence. Check for injuries and render aid if safe to do so.
If your engine catches fire while driving, you should
Turn off the engine, leave the bonnet closed, and move everyone far away. Call emergency services.
Hazard warning lights should be used when
Use them when stopped on the road unexpectedly due to breakdown or accident to warn other drivers.
A blown tyre while driving requires you to
Do not brake suddenly. Let the car roll to a safe stop while steering straight.
If your vehicle skids on a wet road
Take your foot off the accelerator. Avoid braking or oversteering which may worsen the skid.
When an emergency vehicle approaches with flashing lights
Do not stop in the middle of the road or block its route. Always yield to ambulances, fire brigades, and Gardaí.
The best way to warn other drivers of a breakdown is to
Set the triangle at least 45m behind your car on non-motorways. This gives others time to react.
When your car stalls on a railway crossing, you must
Do not waste time trying to restart. Push if safe and clear the area. Use the emergency phone at the crossing.
You should only enter floodwater if
Even 30 cm of water can stall or sweep away a car. If unsure, turn around and find an alternative route.
If smoke enters the cabin while driving, you should
Exit the car immediately. Smoke may indicate electrical fire or mechanical fault. Do not continue driving.
In an accident with no injuries but damage, you must
Provide name, address, insurance, and registration. Report to Gardaí if damage is serious or the other party refuses.
You can reduce the severity of a crash by
If collision is unavoidable, aim for bushes or open ground instead of walls or poles.
If you hit a parked car and the owner is not present, you must
Failure to do so is considered hit-and-run. Always take responsibility for any damage caused.
Emergency braking should be done by
Avoid slamming unless ABS is active. Check mirrors and steer straight while braking hard in emergencies.
The safest way to handle a sudden obstacle is to
Swerving may lead to losing control. Always scan ahead and avoid sharp reactions.
In a multi-vehicle crash, you must not
Only relocate them if there’s risk of fire or explosion. Otherwise, wait for trained medical help.
A flashing red light at a level crossing means
Never try to beat the barrier. Wait until the lights stop and the crossing is clear before proceeding.
If you get stranded in fog, it is best to
Remain in the car only if you are obstructing traffic. Otherwise, exit safely and stay visible.
Your first priority at an accident scene should be
Before helping others, check that you’re not putting yourself in danger from traffic or fire.
When calling emergency services, you should provide
Be clear and concise. Mention landmarks, road names, and the direction you’re travelling.
If your power steering fails, you must
The steering becomes heavy but still works. Reduce speed gradually and pull over when safe.
Practising emergency scenarios mentally helps you
Visualising helps reduce panic during real emergencies. Know your car controls and escape options.