Legal question

area51_for_psx · 18 Jul 2006 at 15:00

Hi guys having a discussion with a guy in work. We are fighting about the question.

Is it a legal requirement to stop at an accident if you are the first person on the scene.

Know it is if you are involved in the accident but is it if you are not involved?

And anyone with the answer anyone know were I would get the law regarding this?

Confused · 18 Jul 2006 at 15:15

I would say no, that the only obligation to stop at an accident would be if you were involved.

Dup · 18 Jul 2006 at 15:16

If you are a witness to the accident then yes, I think it is a legal requirement. Weather you are first at the scene but didn't see it, I don't know. But if someone took your plate as driving away from the scene when you were first there I think you could be in some do do as if someone dies or is seriously injured you would be a big witness factor to the main fault. You could also have alterted emergency services in time to save someones life.

You must be a sick self centred so-and-so not to at least stop and see of anyones badly hurt and in need of immediate help etc.

I came off my bike, just myself invlovled, and I counted 8 cars that drove past me. My bike was actually in the middle of the road and people were just driving over parts while I sat there regaining my senses. I couldn't beleive it. I was in the middle of the countryside, but luckily near where I lived.

I've seen two people dead by the side of the road this year and being there has considerably helped me to be more aware and take it easier in the car.

stoofa · 18 Jul 2006 at 15:25

Link:
http://www.studentbmj.com/issues/01/04/editorials/86.php

Quote:
In the United Kingdom there is no legal obligation for anyone to stop and help at a road accident.

Will look for more links to confirm this.

Serj · 18 Jul 2006 at 15:31

If you come across an accident that you weren't involved in you have no legal obligation to stop, you might want to stop if you consider yourself a human being though

There is only a duty of care in this country if you are a policeman, whether on duty or not. I think this extends to medical professionals aswell.

Look in the Road Traffic Act for more info, i wouldn't expect to find much on the subject though.

In France and some other European countries then you are required to stop if you come across an accident as there is a duty of care in French law to those who are injured.