QLD Fire Department reveals what drivers need to do when an EV crashes

With more electric vehicles on Queensland roads, first responders have issued a warning to motorists regarding the risks and myths in EV crashes. Here is what you need to know.

Queensland drivers have been told to familiarise themselves with popular electric car models and the risks associated with EV crashes, as more models hit the road. (Photo by MIGUEL MEDINA / AFP)

Queensland drivers have been told to familiarise themselves with popular electric car models and the risks associated with EV crashes, as more models hit the road.

Queensland Fire Department road crash rescue training co-ordinator, Elliot Burton, said when motorists found themselves responding to accidents it was “critical” they identified if any electric cars were involved when alerting first-responders.

“Early identification that it is an electric vehicle involved is critical,” Mr Burton.

“The ways you can do that is by the number plates, they will have a blue triangle identifying that it is an electric vehicle.

“Another way is by the badging, obviously if it has a Tesla badge or the BYDs have “EV” on their badging.”

With more electric cars hitting Queensland roads, first responders have issued a warning to motorists regarding the risks and myths in car crashes. Picture: Getty Images

Mr Burton said when walking towards an electrical car involved in a crash approach from the side, rather than the front or from behind, due to the silent motors.

“The biggest risk to members of the public is that the cars can still be running when they are silent,” Mr Burton said.

“It is advised not to stand in front or behind it because they could move forward or rearward and run someone over because they are completely silent.”

In situations where the car’s battery casing is compromised, Mr Burton said rescues needed to be treated as “time critical” regardless of whether the car’s occupants appeared to have only minor injuries.

“Popping and hissing noises are quite common, and the battery cells can be ejected from under the car,” Mr Burton said.

“Sometimes that can be followed by quite intense jet-like flames coming from the battery area, but that is very uncommon.”

Overall, Mr Burton said electric cars had advanced safety features and people should not worry about them “bursting into flames”.

“We are also trying to dispel some myths around electric vehicles because the last thing we want to see is a situation where an EV has crashed and someone needs help but they are apprehensive about doing it because it is an EV,” Mr Burton said.

Originally published as QLD Fire Department reveals what drivers need to do when an EV crashes