The Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) has cautioned accident victims against refusing emergency transportation to a medical facility for further medical care after first responders assess and treat them.
The caution came after a vehicle with two people on board overturned at Union on Sunday.
A male sustained cuts and bruises, while a female appeared unhurt but traumatised.
SLFS emergency personnel responded after learning of the incident at 6:15 pm, but both individuals declined transportation to a medical facility.
In such cases, the SLFS requires victims to sign a ‘release form’ absolving the responders from liability.
Experts warn that refusing treatment at an accident scene or waiting to seek medical care could worsen injuries.
The experts say accidents disorient victims, affecting their ability to think clearly and immediately.
As a result, they explain that it is almost always a mistake to refuse follow-up medical treatment.
According to SLFS data, as of August 28, there were 577 trauma responses to incidents involving vehicles and motorcycles.
The second most prominent trauma response category was physical assaults – 141, followed by 42 shootings, 40 stabbings, and 26 choppings.
In contrast, there were 1061 responses to road accidents involving vehicles and motorcycles last year.
PHOTO: File image
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I am a retired UK Paramedic with 30 years service.
I have been to my fair share of RTC’s and the simple fact is no matter what the injuries are even minor one’s, a thorough examination is best.
Victims of any trauma run on ADRENALINE!!!
This can mask underlying problems to the extent they can have fatal consequences.
I agree with the SLFS, take the offer of a hospital trip…..
Better to be safe than dead
@Paramed you are correct – in addition, there may be internal injuries which are not immediately visible from the outside. Perhaps it is an issue with the bill ???????? – however wisdom would say please take care of yourself and pay the bill later.
Garçon, people afraid to go VH, sorry, VH on the Millenium Highway.