When you’re on the road, whether as a truck driver, commuter, or road trip enthusiast, medical emergencies can happen at any time. Knowing how to respond in such situations can be the difference between life and death. Being prepared and acting swiftly can save lives, including your own. In this guide, we’ll walk through the key steps you can take to help during a medical emergency on the road.
1. Assess the Situation Quickly and Stay Calm
Panic can make an emergency situation worse. The first step is to stay calm, take a deep breath, and quickly assess what’s happening.
- Is the person conscious or unconscious?
- Are they breathing?
- Do they have visible injuries?
- Is there any immediate danger (fire, oncoming traffic, leaking fuel, etc.)?
If the situation is serious, time is of the essence. The faster you act, the better the chances of a positive outcome.
2. Call for Emergency Help Immediately
Once you’ve assessed the situation, call 911 (in the U.S.) or the local emergency number in your country. Provide clear and concise information:
- Your exact location (mile marker, nearest exit, or landmarks)
- The nature of the emergency (heart attack, accident, unconsciousness, etc.)
- The number of people involved
- Any visible injuries or conditions
If you’re in an area with poor reception, try using emergency SOS features on your smartphone. Some GPS devices also have built-in emergency call functions.
3. Provide First Aid if You’re Trained
If you have first aid or CPR training, now is the time to use it. If you don’t, you can still help in other ways. Here’s what to do in common medical emergencies:
Cardiac Arrest (No Pulse, Not Breathing) – Perform CPR
- If the person is unconscious and not breathing, start CPR immediately.
- Place the heel of your hand in the center of their chest, interlock your fingers, and push hard and fast (at least 100-120 compressions per minute, about the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees).
- If an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is available, use it according to the instructions.
Choking – Heimlich Maneuver
- If the person is unable to speak or breathe, perform the Heimlich maneuver:
- Stand behind them, wrap your arms around their waist.
- Make a fist, place it just above the navel, and thrust inward and upward until the object is expelled.
Severe Bleeding – Apply Pressure
- Use a clean cloth or bandage to apply direct pressure to the wound.
- Elevate the injured area if possible.
- If bleeding doesn’t stop, apply a tourniquet (only as a last resort).
Stroke – FAST Test
If you suspect someone is having a stroke, use the FAST test:
- Face – Ask them to smile. Does one side droop?
- Arms – Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
- Speech – Ask them to say a simple phrase. Is it slurred?
- Time – Call 911 immediately if you notice any of these signs.
4. Keep the Scene Safe
If the emergency happens on the road, safety is crucial:
- Pull over safely if you’re in a moving vehicle.
- Turn on hazard lights to warn other drivers.
- If it’s dark, use flashlights or reflective triangles to make the scene visible.
- If the injured person is in traffic, move them only if necessary (e.g., if there’s an immediate danger like fire or oncoming traffic).
5. Offer Comfort and Reassurance
Sometimes, emotional support is just as important as physical first aid.
- Speak calmly and reassure the injured person that help is on the way.
- Keep them warm and still, especially if they’re in shock.
- If they’re conscious, ask about medical conditions (do they have diabetes, heart disease, allergies, etc.?).
6. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle
Having a well-stocked first aid kit can make a huge difference. Essentials include:
✅ Bandages and gauze
✅ Antiseptic wipes
✅ Pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen)
✅ CPR face shield
✅ Tourniquet
✅ Emergency blanket
✅ Flashlight and batteries
✅ Emergency contact list
Additionally, consider learning basic first aid and CPR—many organizations offer training, including the American Red Cross.
Final Thoughts
Medical emergencies on the road are unpredictable, but being prepared, staying calm, and taking quick action can save lives. If you’re a professional driver or frequently travel, consider first aid training and always keep emergency essentials in your vehicle.
Have you ever encountered a medical emergency while on the road? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!
Happy and safe driving wishes from Extra Mile International!
255 E 167th St Suite 1 Harvey, IL 60426, USA [email protected] +1-512-956-8991
Milan is an IT Manager at Extra Mile International, based in Belgrade.
With over 3 years in the trucking industry, Milan brings expertise in optimizing IT systems.
