What to Do If a Car Drives Into a Crowd: Immediate Safety Steps

Move out of the vehicle’s path toward the nearest safe area. Put substantial obstacles between you and the vehicle if you can do so without getting trapped. Once safer, call your local emergency number, report what happened and where, and follow responders’ instructions. Help injured people only when doing so will not put you or anyone else in danger.

What should you do in the first seconds?

1. Move away from the vehicle’s path. Head laterally toward the nearest safe area rather than toward the vehicle or the incident. South Australia Police advises people facing a vehicle heading toward them to escape as quickly as possible (South Australia Police: Escape. Hide. Tell); CISA likewise advises moving away from the hazard (CISA: Vehicle Ramming Action Guide).
2. Use obstacles without blocking your exit. If a substantial object is nearby, put it between you and the vehicle, but avoid corners or barriers that could trap you. If you cannot escape immediately, get behind cover that breaks the vehicle’s direct path and keep looking for a way out. There is no single safest object or route for every scene.
3. Keep moving toward safety. Do not approach the scene to see what is happening. If you fall, curl into a protected position; try to get up and move away as soon as you can.

Where should you run if the route is unclear?

Choose the nearest route that takes you away from the vehicle and toward a safer area, while keeping an exit available. Do not run toward the vehicle, toward the incident, or into a space where you could be cornered. If a clear escape route is not available, use cover to break the vehicle’s direct path and keep assessing whether you can safely move farther away. The right choice depends on the layout and what the vehicle is doing.

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Gevoke 410 Piece Waterproof Hard Shell First Aid Kit, Red	$39.99	Buy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

When and what should you report?

Call your local emergency number once you are in a safer position. Emergency numbers vary by country: the official sources cited here use 9-1-1 in the United States, 111 in New Zealand, Triple Zero (000) in Australia, and 999 in the UK. Use the number for your location, not one assumed to be universal. Give the dispatcher:

• The incident’s location, as precisely as you can.
• What happened and whether the vehicle is still moving or presents an ongoing danger.
• The vehicle or suspect’s description and direction of travel, if known.
• Known injuries or people who need urgent help.

Stay alert for further danger, including the possibility of a secondary attack. Do not return to the scene unless emergency personnel direct you to do so.

#1 Best Overall

Gevoke 410 Piece Waterproof Hard Shell First Aid Kit, Red

• PERFECT FOR FAMILY USE: This first aid kit includes 410 essential supplies, providing a comprehensive selection of items for everyday preparedness at home. Keep essential supplies organized and within easy reach for unexpected situations involving the whole family.
• Multi-Compartments & Well-Organized: All accessories are visible at a glance thanks to the five transparent compartments inside this first aid kit. It's easy and simple for any adult to use, allowing you to quickly and accurately access the first aid supplies you need in an emergency
• PORTABLE DESIGN: Measuring 9.8" x 6.6" x 4.1" and weighing just 2.43 lbs, this compact kit features a detachable shoulder strap and a durable TPU handle for easy carrying. The portable design makes it convenient to take along on camping trips, outdoor adventures, travel, and other activities while keeping essential supplies organized and within easy reach.
• High Quality First Aid Case: The surface is made of premium waterproof EVA material, and the hardness of the case has been enhanced to make it tougher and more durable. Premium waterproof zippers provide better waterproof performance, and double zippers offer added convenience. Its compact size ensures it fits perfectly in your RV, ATV, yacht, boat, Jeep, bike, or motorcycle
• ALWAYS READY FOR ANY EMERGENCY: With its comprehensive selection of essential supplies, this first aid kit is a practical choice for families, offices, camping, hiking, boating, car trips, sports, travel, road trips, workplaces, and schools. Its compact and versatile design makes it easy to keep essential items organized and ready for unexpected situations, whether at home or on the go.

$39.99

Buy on Amazon

Should you help people who are hurt?

Only help when the immediate threat no longer puts you or others at risk. Give first aid within your ability and follow instructions from the emergency dispatcher or responders. If reaching someone would put you in danger, tell emergency services where they are instead of entering the hazard area.

What should you do when responders arrive?

Follow police and emergency personnel’s directions. Keep your hands visible, avoid sudden movements, and do not assume the scene is safe until responders indicate that it is. Their instructions may include moving farther away or staying where you are.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1

Gevoke 410 Piece Waterproof Hard Shell First Aid Kit, Red

$39.99

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.