What action must drivers take under the Good Samaritan Law in Germany if they witness a traffic accident?

Under the Good Samaritan Law in Germany, individuals who witness a traffic accident have a legal obligation to provide assistance, which includes rendering first aid if they are trained to do so and if it is safe for them to do so. This law encourages bystanders to help those in need without the fear of legal repercussions, thus promoting a culture of support and care during emergencies.

The idea is to prevent further harm to victims by providing immediate help, which can be crucial in the moments following an accident. Although calling the police is also an important step in reporting the incident, the immediate need for first aid takes precedence when help can be administered safely. Leaving the scene is not an option, as doing so would negate the responsibility to assist those who are injured. Therefore, the requirement to render first aid emphasizes the ethical and legal importance of taking action when faced with someone in distress.