This crucial final unit equips you to handle unexpected situations on the road, including vehicle breakdowns and accidents. Learn vital procedures to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Mastering these skills is essential for passing the Dutch driving theory test and becoming a responsible driver.
Browse all lessons that make up Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents. Each lesson focuses on specific topics, learning objectives, and core concepts, helping you build essential knowledge and follow a clear, structured progression toward your study goals in the Netherlands.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Explore high-intent keywords and long-tail search topics learners use when researching Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents. These terms reflect how people search for reliable study materials, structured explanations, and unit-level theory preparation support in the Netherlands.
Find clear answers to the most common questions learners ask about Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents. Understand how the unit is organized, what learning goals it supports, and how it contributes to your study progression with structured explanations and practical guidance tailored for learners in the Netherlands.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
All included lessons
Lessons in Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents
See who benefits most from studying Emergencies, Breakdowns, and Accidents. This overview explains how the unit supports different learning needs, what level of knowledge is helpful before starting, and how it fits into the overall study path in the Netherlands.
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.
See how Dutch Driving Theory B is structured, with key topics, learning objectives, and a step-by-step path for theory preparation in the Netherlands.