First Aid Corner Road Safety

First Aid Corner – The Bystander Effect: Why Waiting Costs Lives on Kenyan Roads

Autonews AA Kenya November 11, 2025

Powered by Stop the Bleed Initiative

Every day in Kenya, 13 families lose a loved one to a road crash (NTSA). While ambulances exist, they often arrive after the most critical window has passed. The truth is, motorists, passengers, bodaboda riders, or pedestrians – are the true first responders.

Yet too often, nothing is done. Drivers slow down to watch. Crowds gather in silence. Each person assumes “someone else” will step forward. This hesitation, known as the bystander effect, is deadly on our roads.

What is the Bystander Effect? The bystander effect happens when people fail to act in an emergency because they believe someone else will. On Kenyan roads, this silence costs lives.

How to Act – Even Without Medical Training

You don’t need to be a medic to save a life. It begins with scene safety and simple actions that buy time until professionals arrive:

  1. Warn traffic – Place lifesaver triangles at least 50m from the crash site.
  2.  Prevent fire – Switch off the ignition of crashed vehicles.
  3. Don’t move casualties – Unless there’s immediate danger (fire, leaking fuel).
  4. Then provide First Aid – Only after the scene is safe.

At STOP THE BLEED® Kenya Initiative, we believe every driver and passenger has the power to step forward. Ambulances save lives – but it’s the courage of ordinary road users that often keeps victims alive long enough to reach them.

🚦 Scene Safety Tip of the Month

 Always carry lifesaver triangles. Position them 50 metres behind and in front of the crash (further if visibility is poor). This protects victims, helpers, and motorists alike.

QuickFix Tip of the Month: Controlling Severe Bleeding

✅ Secure the scene (Safety Triangles, ignition off).

✅ Place a clean cloth (or your shirt) directly on the wound and press firmly.

✅ If blood soaks through, add more layers – never lift the first cloth.

✅ Maintain pressure while calling for help.

Emergency Numbers:

  • AA Kenya Roadside Assistance: 0709 933 000 / 0709 933 999
  • Police: 999 / 112
  • Ambulance: via AA Kenya or local providers

STOPPING BLEEDING is the fastest, most effective way to save a life before an ambulance arrives.

Beyond the Crash

If safe to approach:

✅Reassure victims: “Help is on the way. You are not alone.”

✅Avoid unnecessary movement: Many crash victims may have spinal injuries.

✅Delegate tasks: Ask others to direct traffic, call responders, or comfort victims.

✅Care for yourself: Witnessing a crash can be traumatic – talking about it helps.

So, the next time you encounter a crash, don’t let the bystander effect hold you back.  Make the scene safe. STOP THE BLEEDING. Make the call.

Because in those first few minutes – you are the difference.