South Dakota · Handbook chapter 9 · 3 min read
Chapter 9: Emergencies and crashes
Braking, swerving and accelerating to avoid crashes, skids, drop-offs, brake failure, blowouts, stuck accelerators, headlight failure, what to do after a crash and the top causes of serious crashes in South Dakota.
Why this chapter matters
Emergencies happen fast. Knowing the right first move, and what the law requires after a crash, can keep a bad situation from becoming worse.
Three ways to avoid a crash
- Braking: with ABS, press hard and keep pressing. A vibrating pedal and clicking are normal, and you can still steer.
- Steering: grip with both hands, steer around the problem, then steer back to straighten out.
- Accelerating: sometimes needed to avoid being hit from behind or the side.
Skids and drop-offs
- In a skid, release the brake or accelerator and look where you want to go.
- If your wheels drop off the pavement, do not jerk the wheel. Slow down gradually, then steer back when it is safe.
Vehicle failures
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| Brake failure | Apply the parking brake slowly, ready to release it if you skid; if that fails, turn off the engine and find a safe place to stop |
| Tire blowout | Grip the wheel, keep straight, ease off the gas, do not brake hard |
| Engine dies | Steering gets heavy but still works; brake steadily and pull off |
| Stuck accelerator | Turn off the engine, shift to neutral, steer smoothly and brake gently |
| Headlights fail | Try the switch, then use flashers, turn signals or fog lights and pull off |
Protecting yourself
- Hit from behind: press against the seat and head restraint, and be ready to brake.
- Hit from the side: belts keep you behind the wheel; air bags in front do not help.
- Hit from the front: turn for a glancing blow rather than a head-on hit.
After a crash
- You must stop. If anyone is injured or killed, the police must be notified.
- Move the vehicle off the road if it can be driven, turn off wrecked vehicles' ignitions, and stay away from downed power lines.
- Do not move injured people unless they are in danger such as fire. Check breathing and bleeding, press directly on wounds, give nothing to drink and keep them warm to prevent shock.
- Exchange names, addresses, license numbers, vehicle details and insurance information. Notify your insurer.
- If you hit an unattended vehicle and cannot find the owner, contact law enforcement and leave a note with your name, address, phone, license and plate numbers, the date and time and the damage.
- Do not stop at someone else's crash unless help has not arrived, and never drive to a crash just to look.
Top causes of injury and fatal crashes
- Careless driving
- Following too closely
- Driving under the influence
- Failure to stop at a sign or signal
- Improper turn
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my brakes fail?
Apply the parking brake slowly. If the car still will not slow, switch off the engine and steer to a safe spot off the road.
Should I move someone who is hurt in a crash?
Only if they are in immediate danger, such as from fire or traffic.
What is the top cause of serious crashes in South Dakota?
Careless driving, followed by following too closely.
Based on the South Dakota Driver License Manual (South Dakota Department of Public Safety).