What is an effective strategy for assessing a victim in a vehicle?

A visual assessment from outside the vehicle is an effective strategy for assessing a victim because it allows rescuers to gather critical information without putting themselves or the victim at further risk. This assessment helps to determine the nature of the situation, such as the position of the victim, the mechanism of injury, and whether there are any visible hazards, such as leaking fluids or fire.

Conducting a visual assessment first enables the rescuer to identify potential injuries that may not be immediately apparent and to develop an appropriate action plan. This initial approach is crucial before initiating contact with the victim, as immediate physical interaction may inadvertently exacerbate any injuries or complicate the rescue process.

In contrast, relying solely on verbal communication may not provide essential visual cues about the victim's condition or any potential dangers within the vehicle. Placing hands on the victim right away can lead to unnecessary movement and is generally avoided until a full assessment has been made. Asking bystanders for information might yield some helpful context but lacks the thoroughness and immediacy of observing the scene and the victim directly.