What are the first steps if my car breaks down on the Dutch motorway (autosnelweg)?

If your car breaks down on a Dutch motorway, your priority is safety. Activate your hazard warning lights immediately. If possible and safe, steer your vehicle onto the hard shoulder (vluchtstrook) as far to the right as possible. Switch off the engine, exit the vehicle carefully from the side away from traffic, and stand behind the safety barrier. Do not attempt repairs on the hard shoulder. Then, call roadside assistance or the emergency services if it's a dangerous situation.

What information do I need to provide when calling emergency services in the Netherlands?

When calling 112 (the European emergency number), stay calm and clearly state your location, including the road name, direction of travel, and nearest kilometer marker or exit number if possible. Describe the situation (e.g., breakdown, accident, fire), mention if there are any injuries, and provide your name and phone number. Answer all questions from the dispatcher; they will guide you on what to do next.

What is my role at an accident scene according to Dutch traffic law?

Even if you are not involved in an accident, if you come across one, you have a duty to help if possible and safe to do so. This includes securing the scene with your hazard lights and warning triangle, checking for injuries, and calling 112. Do not move injured people unless there is immediate danger. Exchange details with other involved parties if it's a minor incident, but wait for police if there are injuries or significant damage.

Do I need to carry a first aid kit in my car for the Dutch theory test?

While a fully stocked first aid kit isn't explicitly mandatory for passing the theory test itself, it is highly recommended for safe driving in the Netherlands. Having one allows you to provide immediate assistance in minor emergencies or accidents. The theory test does cover the importance of being prepared and knowing how to react, including basic first aid principles and contacting emergency services.

What is the purpose of the warning triangle and hazard lights in an emergency?

Hazard warning lights (knipperlichten) are used to alert other road users that your vehicle is stopped or moving unusually slowly, often due to a breakdown or a hazardous situation. The warning triangle (gevarendriehoek) is used to provide a visual warning from a distance, particularly outside built-up areas and on motorways, to prevent secondary accidents. Proper use of both is crucial for signaling danger and protecting yourself and others.

What if I am unsure about dealing with a serious accident or breakdown?

If you are unsure or the situation appears dangerous, your primary responsibility is to ensure your own safety and the safety of others by not escalating the risk. Use your hazard lights, set up your warning triangle if safe to do so, and call 112 for professional assistance. Let the trained emergency services handle complex or dangerous situations.

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Dutch Driving Theory B: Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents

Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit overview image

This final unit prepares you for the unexpected by outlining the correct procedures for handling emergencies on the road. You will learn the steps to take if your vehicle breaks down, including how to safely stop on the hard shoulder and make yourself visible to other traffic. The lessons cover the actions required at the scene of an accident, from securing the area and calling emergency services to administering basic first aid. Understanding these protocols is crucial for ensuring your own safety and helping others in a time of crisis.

emergenciesbreakdownsaccidentsroadside assistancefirst aidhazard lights

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Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum

Part of the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum

This unit is one of the core sections of the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum, a structured learning program that helps learners in the Netherlands prepare for the Dutch driving theory exam. The curriculum brings together all essential topics in a clear and organised way, combining units and lessons that cover rules, signs, and real traffic situations.

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Complete Guide to the Dutch Driving Theory Test (Category B)

Prepare effectively for the Dutch Category B (car) driving theory test with this structured curriculum. This course provides in-depth knowledge of all essential topics, including traffic regulations, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices in the Netherlands. You will learn to interpret complex traffic situations, understand vehicle requirements, and recognize the responsibilities of a safe driver, ensuring you are fully equipped to succeed in your CBR theory exam and drive safely on Dutch roads.

12 units48 lessons

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Why the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit is important

The Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit is a key part of the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum and helps learners in the Netherlands understand essential theory topics in a clear and practical way. Each lesson breaks down a specific theme that often appears in the Dutch driving theory exam. With structured explanations and examples taken from real traffic situations, this unit helps learners study smarter, fix common misunderstandings, and build the knowledge required for confident exam performance.

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What you will learn

Core concepts taught throughout the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit

Identify and apply the correct procedures for safely stopping and signaling during a vehicle breakdown.

Understand the immediate actions required at the scene of a road accident to secure the area and call for help.

Recognize the importance of basic first aid in emergency situations and how to contact emergency services effectively.

Demonstrate knowledge of hazard lights and emergency signaling to alert other road users.

Understand the legal responsibilities and practical steps following a traffic incident.

Unit outcomes

What you will be able to understand after completing the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit

Upon completing this unit, you will feel confident in your ability to manage stressful road emergencies. You'll know exactly what steps to take if your car breaks down, from safely pulling over and making your vehicle visible to securing yourself and passengers. Furthermore, you'll understand the critical actions to perform at an accident scene, including how to protect the area, alert emergency services, and provide basic assistance. This knowledge is not only a key component of the Dutch driving theory exam but also an indispensable skill for responsible and safe driving in the Netherlands, ensuring you can react effectively and calmly when it matters most.

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Who this unit helps

Learners who benefit the most from the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit

This unit is vital for all learners preparing for the Dutch Category B driving theory test, especially those who want to be fully prepared for unforeseen events. It is particularly relevant for those who might be anxious about handling emergencies or accidents, providing clear, actionable steps.

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Lessons included in the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit

Explore key lessons that shape the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit in the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum. These lessons focus on exam related topics, important rules, and practical skills that help you progress faster and prepare effectively for the driving theory exam in the Netherlands.

Handling a Vehicle Breakdown

Learn the critical steps for safely handling a vehicle breakdown, including using hazard lights, placing a warning triangle, and evacuating passengers to safety. Essential knowledge for the Dutch theory test and real-world road safety.

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Actions at an Accident Scene

Learn the essential steps to take after a traffic accident in the Netherlands, including securing the scene, checking for injuries, contacting emergency services, and legally exchanging information to ensure safety and compliance.

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First Aid and Contacting Emergency Services

Learn essential basic first aid and how to contact emergency services (112) with the right information for Dutch accident scenarios, crucial for the theory test and safe driving.

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Eco-Driving and Environmental Awareness

Learn essential eco-driving techniques ('Het Nieuwe Rijden') to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and understand environmental zones, preparing you for the Dutch theory exam and responsible driving.

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Questions

Frequently asked questions about the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit

Get answers to common questions about the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit and how it fits within the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum. Learn how long the unit takes, how the lessons are structured, and how this unit supports your preparation for the driving theory exam in the Netherlands.

What makes the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit effective

The Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit stands out because it teaches essential topics in a way that is simple, clear, and focused on exam success. All content is aligned with real requirements in the Netherlands and designed to help learners build practical understanding, not just memorise facts. Whether you are revising or learning the material for the first time, this unit provides reliable guidance that supports measurable progress inside the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum.

Covers every core topic linked to this part of the curriculumWritten with real exam patterns from the Netherlands in mindExplains every concept using real traffic situationsClear unit layout that supports step by step progressUpdated to match current the Netherlands driving theory rulesStrengthens your readiness for the Dutch theory exam

Learn how to safely interact with pedestrians and cyclists, a key topic for the Dutch theory test and everyday driving in the Netherlands.

4 lessons

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Begin the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit today

Start studying the Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents unit and continue your progress in the Dutch Driving Theory B curriculum. With structured lessons, real examples, and clear explanations, this unit helps you study confidently and prepare effectively for the Dutch driving theory exam in the Netherlands.

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