← Breakdowns and incidents
Rule 285: Incidents with dangerous goods
Advice, not law
Incidents involving dangerous goods (rules 284 to 285)
If an incident involves a vehicle containing dangerous goods, follow the advice in Rule 283 and, in particular
- switch off engines and DO NOT SMOKE
- keep well away from the vehicle and do not be tempted to try to rescue casualties as you yourself could become one
- call the emergency services and give as much information as possible about the labels and markings on the vehicle. DO NOT use a mobile phone close to a vehicle carrying flammable loads.
Advice, not law. This rule is not written in capitals, so breaking it is not an offence in itself — but it can still be used in evidence in court to establish liability. The rules that say MUST or MUST NOT are the ones backed by law.
5 theory test questions on this rule
From the DVSA revision question bank. These are not the questions asked in the real theory test. Each one shows the answer, the explanation, and our own note on why every other option is not it.
Lorry & Bus (LGV/PCV)
- You're the first person to arrive at an incident where people are badly injured. What's the first thing you should do? Incidents, accidents and emergencies
- You arrive at the scene of an incident where someone is injured. What should be given urgent priority? Incidents, accidents and emergencies
- Which symbol on a lorry means it's likely to be carrying compressed gases? Vehicle loading
- Your vehicle breaks down on a motorway and you need to call for help. Why may it be better to use an emergency roadside telephone rather than a mobile phone? The driver