What To Do Immediately After a Road Traffic Accident By Dr. Kashyap Solanki – Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Mumbai

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are unfortunately common and can happen to anyone — whether you’re a driver, rider, or pedestrian. The actions taken in the first few minutes after an accident can make the difference between a full recovery and lifelong complications.

Here’s a simple, practical guide on what to do immediately after an accident until medical help arrives.

1. Ensure Safety First

• Move away from oncoming traffic to a safe spot.

• Switch off the vehicle’s engine and turn on hazard lights.

• Avoid crowding the accident site — safety of the injured and rescuers is the priority.

2. Check for Responsiveness

• Gently ask the injured person if they can hear you or move.

• Do not shake or move them if they appear unconscious or have visible deformities in the neck or limbs.

• If there’s no response, call emergency services immediately (in India, dial 108 or 112).

3. Assess Breathing and Pulse

• Look for chest movement and feel for air at the nose or mouth.

• If trained, start basic CPR if the person is not breathing and no pulse is felt.

• Avoid crowd interference — one trained person should take charge.

4. Immobilize Suspected Fractures

• If a limb appears bent, swollen, or painful, do not attempt to straighten it.

• Use available materials (wooden sticks, cardboard, rolled newspapers) as temporary splints.

• Immobilize both joints above and below the suspected fracture.

• Avoid removing clothing if it causes pain or bleeding to worsen.

5. Control Bleeding

• Apply gentle direct pressure on the wound using a clean cloth or gauze.

• Elevate the injured limb if possible.

• Do not use a tourniquet unless the bleeding is severe and life-threatening.

6. Avoid Unnecessary Movement

• Suspected neck or back injuries should be kept absolutely still.

• Do not try to lift or drag the person unless there is immediate danger (fire, explosion, or traffic).

• Support the neck and back if transport is necessary.

7. Call for Medical Help

• Contact the nearest trauma center or hospital specializing in orthopaedic and emergency care.

• Provide clear information: location, number of injured, and condition of the victims.

• While waiting, keep the person warm and reassured.

8. When to Seek Immediate Orthopaedic Attention

Visit an orthopaedic trauma specialist without delay if:

• There is severe pain, deformity, or inability to move a limb

• Open wounds with visible bone or deep bleeding

• Loss of sensation or weakness in hands or feet

• Suspected spinal, hip, or pelvic injury

Expert Opinion

As an orthopaedic trauma surgeon, I often see complications caused by improper handling after an accident — from missed fractures to paralysis due to careless movement. Timely first aid and safe transport to a hospital can save lives and preserve limb function.

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About Dr. Kashyap Prabhu Solanki & Dr. Prabhu Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

With over four decades of distinguished orthopaedic practice, Dr. Prabhu Solanki stands as one of Mumbai’s most experienced and respected orthopaedic surgeons. Having treated more than 40,000 patients and performed over 10,000 surgeries, his clinical outcomes and dedication have earned him widespread recognition — not just in Mumbai, but across India and abroad.

Dr. Solanki’s reputation for precision, ethical care, and long-term results has brought him patients from all over India, as well as international patients seeking high-quality orthopaedic treatment and surgical expertise in Mumbai.

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