Traffic accidents
What do we see on the risk map?
The risk map shows the following:
- high-speed railway line routes;
- intercity trains;
- motorways;
- national main roads;
- provincial roads with a speed limit of 100 kph.
What is the risk?
Railways
Most railway accidents occur at level crossings. This is because road and rail traffic is increasing all the time.
The risk in the case of rail transport is a collision or derailment. A fire may occur as a result. In the case of passenger trains, the risk of casualties is considerable, panic may occur and there will be damage to property.
Roads
Multiple-vehicle collisions may occur. As many vehicles are involved, there may be many casualties. There will be a risk of chaos, panic and fire, and hazardous substances may be released.
What can you do yourself?
In the case of a rail accident:
- stay calm;
- try to calm other passengers;
- as long as there is no immediate threat to life: stay in the train and wait for instructions from the conductor or driver; it can be extremely dangerous to leave the train: it may be some distance to the ground, there is a risk of being run over by other trains, and a risk of broken overhead power lines;
- if first aid is required: warn the crew on board the train;
- if there is serious danger: call 1-1-2 if this has not yet been done and ask for the railway police.
If a road accident occurs, you should do the following:
- take care of your own safety: be careful if you leave your car;
- assess the condition of other casualties: are they capable of communicating?
- call the emergency services on 1-1-2 if this has not yet been done: explain your location and the situation;
- apply first aid if possible;
- do not drive slowly or stop in the case of an accident, as this may cause tailbacks;
- keep the hard shoulder free for the fire brigade, police and ambulance.
Discover the risks in your area
What safety measures are there?
Railway companies are responsible for safety on the railways (carriages and getting on and off safely) and for creating a feeling of safety during the train journey. Prorail handles the construction, maintenance and management of the Dutch rail network. This includes tunnels, level crossings, overhead power lines, signals, points and stations. The government checks whether the companies involved comply with the rules. Safety at level crossings is the joint responsibility of the government and road and rail managers.
Road managers are responsible for safety on roads. Road managers maintain the roads, bridges and viaducts and handle road signs. The government checks whether the bodies and the users involved comply with the safety rules.
More information
General information about what to do in the case of a traffic accident can be found at http://www.crisis.nl/.