According to MoRTH Guidelines

Road accidents are not rare events in India. According to the MoRTH Road Accident Report 2023, India recorded 4,80,583 accidents and lost 1,72,890 lives. That is nearly 36 percent fatalities. The real issue is not just accidents but what happens in the first few minutes after one.

Knowing what to do after a road accident in India can save a life. The golden hour matters. You do not need to be a doctor. You need awareness, calm thinking, and the right steps.

What is MoRTH and How its Role in Road Accident Safety

MoRTH stands for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. It governs road safety policies, transport laws, and national highways across India.

One major MoRTH benefit for citizens is the Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims Scheme 2025. Under this scheme, accident victims are eligible for cashless medical treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for a maximum of 7 days at designated hospitals. This removes hesitation to help due to cost fears.

First Things to Do After a Road Accident Safety Comes First

Before helping anyone, ensure your own safety.

• Always carry a first aid kit while traveling
• Check for fire, traffic, broken wires, or fuel leaks
• Use gloves or face protection if blood is involved
• Ask for consent if the injured person is conscious

A calm mindset is as important as medical help.

Step 1 : Call Emergency Help Immediately

Dial 112 as soon as you witness a road accident.

Share:

• Exact location
• Number of injured people
• Condition like bleeding or unconsciousness

Use live location sharing or the 112 India App on Android or iOS. Ask bystanders to help control traffic or fetch clean cloths.

Step 2 : Perform ABC Check Airway Breathing Circulation

Airway:
If unconscious, gently tilt head back and lift chin unless spinal injury is suspected. In high speed crashes or falls, do not move the neck.

Breathing:
Look, listen, and feel for breathing. If absent, prepare for CPR.

Circulation:
Check for heavy bleeding and control it immediately.

Step 3 : CPR Steps if the Victim Is Not Breathing

If unresponsive and not breathing normally:

• Place palms at center of chest
• Press hard and fast 100 to 120 compressions per minute
• Depth should be 5 to 6 cm for adults
• Give 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths
• If untrained, perform hands only CPR
• Continue until help arrives or signs of life return

Step 4 : How to Control Heavy Bleeding Safely

• Apply firm pressure with clean cloth or bandage
• Do not remove embedded objects like glass
• Stabilize objects using padding
• Use tourniquet only if trained and bleeding is uncontrollable

Step 5 : Recovery Position for Unconscious Victims

If the person is breathing but unconscious, place them on their side to keep the airway clear. Move as little as possible if spinal injury is suspected.

Helmet and Seatbelt Safety After a Road Accident

Basic First Aid Kit Essentials for Indian Roads

Final Thoughts Why Preparedness Saves Lives

The biggest mistake after a road accident is panic or walking away. MoRTH guidelines exist to empower common citizens. One informed decision can bridge the gap between life and death. Be the person who knows what to do.

FAQs

What is the emergency number to call after a road accident in India?
Dial 112 immediately and share location, injuries, and condition details.

What is the MoRTH cashless treatment scheme?
It provides accident victims up to ₹1.5 lakh cashless treatment for 7 days at designated hospitals.

Should I remove a helmet after a bike accident?
No, unless the victim is not breathing and CPR is required.

Can an untrained person perform CPR?
Yes, hands only CPR is effective and recommended if rescue breaths are uncomfortable.

Why is the golden hour important after a road accident?
Immediate first aid during the first hour significantly improves survival chances.