EMERGENCY SERVICES

🚨

911 — EMERGENCY SERVICES

Unified Emergency Number (Police, Ambulance, Fire). Works in all tourist areas.

📞 CALL 911

🚛

ASISTENCIA VIAL (MOPC)

Free government roadside assistance (towing, mechanic, fuel). The most effective service for drivers.

📞 +1 (829) 688-1000

👮

POLITUR — TOURIST POLICE

Direct line for foreigners. The primary protection for tourists in the D.R.

📞 +1 (809) 200-3500

🚔

DIGESETT — ROAD POLICE

Road police (formerly AMET). Call in case of an accident or vehicle breakdown.

📞 +1 (809) 682-6241

SAVE THESE NUMBERS

📶✅ AVAILABLE 24/7!

Add to your contacts — you may need them anytime.

SELECT THE SITUATION IN WHICH YOU NEED HELP

🚨 ACCIDENT / BREAKDOWN → 👮 POLICE CONTACT / TRAFFIC STOP → 🏥 MEDICINE / FAST AID →

24/7 PROTECTION ACTIVE

🛡️ YOUR SAFETY IS MY PRIORITY

Click on the button corresponding to your situation — I will guide you further.

FIRST STEPS AFTER AN ACCIDENT

1️⃣ Immediately After Stopping

🧘 Stay calm – This helps you make the right decisions.

⚠️ Turn on hazard lights and turn off the engine.

🚫 Do not move the vehicle – Required by Article 285 of Law 63‑17.

🩺 Check for injuries. If there are victims, call 911 (ambulance, police) immediately.

2️⃣ Document the Scene & Collect Data

📸 Turn on your camera. Record: Accident scene (vehicle positions, skid marks) License plates (placas) of all cars. The other driver's documents (license, insurance)

📋 Collect participant information: Make, model, color of each vehicle. Driver's licenses (licencias de conducir). Insurance details (seguro)

👀 Find possible witnesses (don't pressure them) and check for nearby security cameras.

✅ Verify that all participants have valid insurance.

3️⃣ Key Phone Calls

📞 Call the rental company – number in your knowledge base.

📞 Call your insurance company – number is on your rental agreement.

🚑 If there are injured people – call 911.

📌 Additional number: DIGESETT (Highway Police): central +1 (809) 682‑6241

4️⃣ What You Must NEVER Do

❌ Do not admit fault at the scene.

❌ Do not hand over your passport to anyone.

❌ Do not pay on the spot (no cash, no transfers).

5️⃣ Protection Against Pressure at the Scene (if someone tries to frame you)

Use these phrases (you can show them on your phone):

🗣️ "No hablo español suficiente. No firmaré nada sin un intérprete oficial o mi abogado."
→ "I don't speak enough Spanish. I will not sign anything without an official interpreter or my lawyer."

🛡️ "Exijo que llamen a la POLITUR ahora mismo."
→ "I demand that you call the Tourist Police (POLITUR) right now."
(This is a magic phrase – regular traffic police fear inspections from POLITUR.)

🚗 "No moveré el vehículo hasta que llegue el oficial de la DIGESETT y haga el acta."
→ "I will not move the vehicle until the DIGESETT officer arrives and writes the report."

6️⃣ Police Arrival (DIGESETT)

👮 DIGESETT is the Dominican Republic's specialized highway police.

📝 The officer must write a report (Acta Policial) at the scene.

🗺️ He will draw a diagram of the accident, take statements from participants and witnesses, and administer a breathalyzer test if necessary.

7️⃣ Getting the Report – What You Must Receive

📄 Acta Policial – the official accident report. This is the main document for:

Your insurance company

Court (if there is a legal case)

Protecting your rights

🏥 - If there are injured people – be sure to ask the officer for a referral for a medical examination by a forensic doctor (médico legista). This document is critical for proving injuries and obtaining compensation.

IF YOU BREAK DOWN ON THE ROAD

1️⃣ FIRST ACTIONS AT THE SCENE

⚠️ Turn on your hazard lights

➡️ Pull over to the shoulder or a safe place (if possible)

🔺 Set up the warning triangle: 30–50 meters behind the car (during the day) - 100 meters (at night)

☝️Put on a reflective vest (especially at night, if available)

🚫 Do not stand between the car and the road – move behind a barrier or to the shoulder

📞 Call the rental company (the number is in your contract). If it's night, leave a message via messenger or email

🔍 Start inspecting the car to try and identify the problem

2️⃣ REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENED BEFORE YOU STOPPED

Think about what you noticed:

The car was jerking – possible engine problem → drive carefully or not at all

There was a knocking sound (right/left) – possible wheel or suspension issue → stop, do not drive

Loss of power – engine or fuel problem → do not strain the engine

The car was pulling to one side – wheel problem → check, possibly replace

Smell or smoke – dangerous → do not drive at all

3️⃣ CHECK THE DASHBOARD

✅ Green lights – everything is normal

☝️ Yellow lights – warning (you can drive carefully)

🛑 Red lights – danger (do not drive)

📌 Remember which lights are on and what color they are – you will need to tell this to the mechanic.

4️⃣ INSPECT THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR

Walk around the vehicle:

💥 Flat tire? → change the tire / if you don't know how – call a mechanic

💧 Puddles under the car?

Black → oil (leak – do not drive)

Colored → antifreeze / coolant (do not drive)

Clear → water (if not from the radiator – nothing to worry about)

🔩 Anything hanging loose or fallen off? → dangerous (do not drive)

5️⃣ OPEN THE HOOD (IF THERE IS NO SMOKE)

Check:

🛢️ Oil – no oil → do not drive

❄️ Coolant – none → engine will overheat, do not drive

🔋 Battery (terminals) – disconnected → you can try to reconnect them / if unsure – call a mechanic

💨 Burning smell or smoke – yes → do not start the engine, do not drive

6️⃣ WRITE DOWN EVERYTHING

Remember (or write down):

The symptoms

Which dashboard lights were on

What you saw outside

What you saw under the hood

🎯 This will help them assist you quickly and accurately.

7️⃣ CONTACT A MECHANIC

👉 Press the "Contact a Trip Assistant" button (in your app or call the rental number)

Tell them:

What happened

What the dashboard shows

What you saw during your inspection

💡 The more precisely you describe it – the faster they can help you.

8️⃣ MAKE A DECISION

✅ You can drive – carefully to a service station

🛑 You cannot drive – wait for help / a tow truck

🔧 Simple problem – fix it on the spot or with the mechanic's help

⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY RULES & PROHIBITIONS

🚫 Do not accept help from strangers – they might rob you or overcharge you

🔑 Do not leave the keys in the car if you step away

🌙 If you break down at night on the highway – stay in the car with the doors locked and wait for help

💰 If a tow truck driver asks for prepayment – call the rental company first

🚨 THE MAIN RULE - If you have any doubts – do not drive.

EMERGENCY CONTACT LIST

WHAT TO DO AND HOW TO BEHAVE?

1️⃣ STAY CALM

Do not make sudden movements
Speak in a calm, polite tone
Do not argue or raise your voice

2️⃣ LET THEM KNOW YOU DON'T SPEAK SPANISH

Say: "No hablo español. ¿Habla inglés?"
If the officer doesn't speak English – do not try to explain with gestures (this can be misinterpreted)

3️⃣ RECORD EVERYTHING ON CAMERA

Turn on video on your phone immediately after being stopped
Record continuously: the officer's face, their badge, the patrol car, your actions
In the Dominican Republic, filming police on duty is allowed – this is your protection

4️⃣ SHOW DOCUMENTS WHEN REQUESTED (BUT DON'T HAND THEM OVER)

Show documents through the open window
Hold them so the officer can read them, but do not let go of them
Exception: if the officer demands to take your passport to the station – follow them, but do not part with your documents without witnesses

5️⃣ KEEP YOUR HANDS VISIBLE

Both hands on the steering wheel or dashboard
Do not put your hands in pockets, under the seat, or into a bag
Before reaching for anything (phone, documents), warn: "Voy a sacar mi teléfono/documentos"

6️⃣ DO NOT ALLOW A SEARCH WITHOUT WITNESSES OR A WARRANT

The officer has the right to visually inspect the interior through the windows
For a full search (personal search, opening the trunk or glove compartment) you need:
- A warrant (usually there is none)
- Witnesses (two unbiased bystanders)
Politely say: "No consiento un registro sin orden judicial ni testigos"

7️⃣ IF A SEARCH IS UNAVOIDABLE

Do not resist – this will only make things worse
Empty all your pockets onto the hood or the ground
Turn your pockets inside out – this shows you have nothing to hide
Record the process on camera

8️⃣ IN ANY DANGEROUS SITUATION – CALL POLITUR

POLITUR (Tourist Police): +1 (809) 200-3500
Say: "Un oficial de DIGESETT me está amenazando/exigiendo dinero. Necesito a POLITUR ahora mismo"
Demand a lawyer: "Exijo hablar con un abogado antes de responder cualquier pregunta"

9️⃣ WRITE DOWN THE OFFICER'S NAME AND BADGE NUMBER

Ask: "¿Cómo se llama? ¿Cuál es su número de placa?"
Photograph the badge up close (even if it's on their belt)
Write down the patrol car number

🔟 NEVER PAY A FINE ON THE SPOT

In the Dominican Republic, it is prohibited to pay a fine in cash to a police officer
All fines must be paid only through a bank or an official portal
If an officer demands money – this is a bribe. Record it on video and call POLITUR

1️⃣1️⃣ DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING IN SPANISH

If you are given a document to sign, say: "No firmo nada sin un intérprete oficial o mi abogado"
You have the right to an interpreter

1️⃣2️⃣ IF THE OFFICER THREATENS YOU WITH A WEAPON OR ARREST

Do not argue, do not make sudden movements
Calmly say: "Estoy grabando. Llamaré a POLITUR y a mi consulado"
Dial 911 and hand the phone to the officer (or put it on speaker)

⚠️ WHO TO CALL RIGHT AFTER BEING STOPPED (if you have time)

Routine document check – Do not call (just record on camera)

Bribe demand / threats – Call POLITUR at +1 (809) 200-3500

Arrest or use of force – Call 911 + your consulate (911 is the emergency number)

Complaint against police conduct – Call Asuntos Internos at +1 (809) 682-2151 ext. 2445

🚨 MAIN RULES (REMEMBER THESE)

Your rights: to remain silent, to record on camera, to demand a lawyer and an interpreter, not to sign documents you don't understand, not to pay on the spot.

Your protection: POLITUR, video recording, the officer's name, a call to your consulate.

If in doubt – call POLITUR.

YOUR RIGHTS / LAWS

⚠️ MAIN WARNING

Any participant in the process – from a DIGESETT officer to a lawyer – may be involved in a corrupt conspiracy. A lawyer may pretend to defend you while secretly cooperating with the police.

❌ NEVER DO THIS

Do not sign documents whose meaning you do not understand
Do not hand over cash without an official receipt
Do not admit fault – even saying "I'm sorry" or "Lo siento" can be legally recorded as an admission of guilt
Do not offer money at the scene
Do not sign papers in Spanish without a lawyer

🛡️ KEY RULES OF PROTECTION

1️⃣ Golden rule: "Silence is protection"

Never admit fault (even a casual "I'm sorry"). Do not offer money at the scene. Do not sign papers in Spanish without a lawyer.

📌 Any apology in a police report may be recorded as a sincere admission of guilt.

2️⃣ The "Iron Recording" protocol (before police arrive)

While the police are on their way (and they can take a long time), the other party may bring "fake witnesses."

What to do:

Record video 360° IMMEDIATELY
Your frame must include:
- Faces of all participants
- License plates
- Position of the wheels
- Skid marks
- Faces of potential "fake witnesses"

Protection from an aggressive crowd:

If an aggressive crowd of locals surrounds you – get in the car, lock the doors and record everything from inside

3️⃣ Dealing with DIGESETT (police) – Law No. 63-17

Article 285: The officer MUST write a report at the scene of the accident
If an officer pressures you or illegally takes your passport – demand the presence of POLITUR (Tourist Police)

4️⃣ Casa del Conductor – your trump card

You have the right to demand that the report be filed ONLY at Casa del Conductor or Centro del Automovilista
These places have cameras, independent prosecutors, and no corruption
This eliminates 90% of attempts to scam you for money

5️⃣ Risk of detention (Article 40 of the Constitution)

If there are injured people, they may try to put you in a cell "until trial"
Immediately assert your right to call your consul and a lawyer
If you have insurance and a residential address – pre-trial detention is extortion

6️⃣ The "Fake Witnesses" scheme

Local participants may bring "witnesses" who were not at the scene.

Protection: Say loudly on video:

"I am recording everyone present. New people arriving later will be reported as fraud."

👮 POLICE CORRUPTION

An officer does not have the right to take your passport without a report
Do not pay fines on the spot – fines only through the bank
During a search: never take your eyes off the officer's hands – drugs may be planted

🏥 MEDICAL FRAUD

Clinics may inflate bills by 5–10 times
Demand a Factura Detallada (detailed invoice)
Withholding a passport for debts is illegal
If prices are inflated, refer to SISALRIL: +1 (809) 920-0200

⚖️ A LAWYER IS WORKING AGAINST YOU IF:

They demand cash "for the judge"
They hide the case number (Número de Expediente)
They insist on admitting guilt when you have video evidence

🚛 IMPOUND LOT

Cars are often robbed there
Do not sign the acceptance certificate without checking the interior
Pay fines only through Banco de Reservas, not at the scene

📜 YOUR RIGHTS UNDER DOMINICAN LAW

🏛️ CONSTITUTION OF THE DR

Article 40: Right to liberty. Detention only with a warrant or for an obvious crime
Article 44: Inviolability of private life. Searching a car without a warrant or suspicion is illegal
Article 69: Right to fair justice and legal defense

🚗 LAW 63-17 (Traffic Law)

Article 285: A DIGESETT officer MUST write a report at the accident scene. Moving the car before the report is completed = fine

🔍 CRIMINAL PROCEDURE CODE

Article 176: Searching a car – only when there is a high probability of evidence of a crime
Articles 175-180: Search without a warrant – only with reasonable suspicion and in the presence of witnesses

🏥 HEALTHCARE (Laws 87-01 and 42-01)

A clinic must stabilize a patient for free in critical condition
Withholding a passport for debts is a criminal offense
You have the right to a detailed invoice (Factura Detallada)

🛂 IMMIGRATION (Law 285-04)

If you lose your passport – a police report (Denuncia) temporarily replaces the document

🗣️ DEFENSE PHRASES IN SPANISH

👮 WHEN STOPPED BY POLICE

"Oficial, ¿cuál es el motivo legal de mi detención?" – What is the legal reason for stopping me?
"No acepto pagar multas en la calle. Solicito una boleta de infracción formal." – I do not pay fines on the street. I request an official citation.
"Por favor, identifíquese. Quiero anotar su nombre y número de placa." – Please identify yourself. I want to write down your name and badge number.

🚗 AFTER AN ACCIDENT

"No hablo español suficiente. No firmaré nada sin un intérprete oficial o mi abogado." – I do not speak enough Spanish. I will not sign anything without an official interpreter or my lawyer.
"Exijo que llamen a la POLITUR ahora mismo." – I demand that you call POLITUR right now.
"No moveré el vehículo hasta que llegue el oficial de la DIGESETT y haga el acta." – I will not move the vehicle until the DIGESETT officer arrives and writes the report.

🏍️ WHEN SET UP BY A MOTORCYCLIST

"No hubo contacto. Él se cayó solo. Tengo video." – There was no contact. He fell on his own. I have video.
"Llamen a la ambulancia de emergencia ahora. No pagaré nada aquí." – Call an ambulance now. I will not pay anything here.

🔍 DURING A SEARCH

"Oficial, ¿tiene una orden judicial para revisar mi vehículo?" – Officer, do you have a court order to search my vehicle?
"No autorizo el registro voluntario de mi propiedad privada." – I do not consent to a voluntary search of my private property.

🛂 WHEN YOUR PASSPORT IS BEING HELD

"Es ilegal retener mi pasaporte. Aquí tiene una copia, el original no se entrega." – It is illegal to withhold my passport. Here is a copy, I do not hand over the original.

💰 DURING EXTORTION

"Usted no está cumpliendo con su deber. Presentaré una queja en Asuntos Internos." – You are not fulfilling your duty. I will file a complaint with Internal Affairs.
"Llamaré a mi Consulado para informar sobre este procedimiento irregular." – I will call my Consulate to report this irregular procedure.

🚨 MAIN RULES (REMEMBER THESE)

Your rights: to remain silent, to record on camera, to demand a lawyer and an interpreter, not to sign documents you don't understand, not to pay on the spot, to demand that the report be filed only at Casa del Conductor.

Your protection: video recording, POLITUR, your consulate, an independent lawyer, refusal to sign anything in Spanish.

If in doubt – do not sign, do not pay, call POLITUR.

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

1️⃣ NATIONAL EMERGENCY SERVICES (24/7)

🚨 9-1-1 — Unified emergency number (Police , Ambulance , Firefighters ). Works in all tourist areas.

🚗 +1 (829) 688-1000 — Asistencia Vial (MOPC). Free government road assistance (tow truck, mechanic, fuel ). The most effective service for drivers.

👮‍♂️ +1 (809) 200-3500 — POLITUR (Tourist Police). Direct line for foreigners.

🚔 +1 (809) 682-6241 — DIGESETT (Central Office). Highway Police (formerly AMET).

2️⃣ OVERSIGHT BODIES (WHERE TO COMPLAIN)

⚠️ If you face extortion, inaction, or fraud from lawyers or clinics.

🔍+1 (809) 682-2151 (Ext. 2445) — Asuntos Internos de la Policía (Internal Affairs). Call if police demand a bribe or act illegally.

🏛️ +1 (809) 381-7777 — Defensor del Pueblo (Ombudsman). Protection of civil rights against official misconduct.

🏥 +1 (809) 920-0200 — SISALRIL. Control of medical insurance and hospitals. Call if clinics inflate bills.

📄 +1 (809) 567-8555 — ProConsumidor. Consumer protection (fraud in hotels , rental services, etc.).

⚖️ +1 (809) 685-5111 — CARD (Colegio de Abogados – Bar Association). Complaints against dishonest lawyers.

🚔+1 (809) 616-0470 — INTRANT. Control over highway police and impound lots.

3️⃣ REGIONAL CONTACTS

CABARETE & SOSUA

👮 +1 (809) 571-0810 — Cabarete Police (Policía Nacional)

🔥 +1 (809) 571-2338 — Sosua Fire Department (Bomberos)

🏥 +1 (809) 571-4696 — Centro Médico Cabarete (CMC). Main private hospital (24/7)

👮‍♂️🛡️ +1 (809) 571-2757 — POLITUR (Sosua/Cabarete)

PUERTO PLATA

👮 +1 (809) 586-2331 — Regional Police Headquarters (Northern District)

🔥 +1 (809) 261-2828 — Puerto Plata Fire Department

🏥 +1 (809) 586-2342 — Bournigal Clinic (Largest medical center in the region)

🚔 +1 (809) 320-7041 — DIGESETT Puerto Plata (accident report processing)

SANTIAGO

👮 +1 (809) 582-6181 — Santiago Regional Police Headquarters

🔥 +1 (809) 583-1202 — Santiago Fire Department

🏥+1 (809) 581-7177 — Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago (HOMS). One of the best hospitals in the country

🛡️ +1 (809) 241-1188 — Casa del Conductor (Santiago). Special accident report center (corruption protection)

SANTO DOMINGO (CAPITAL)

🚨 9-1-1 — Main emergency services headquarters

👮‍♂️ +1 (809) 682-2151 — National Police Headquarters (Palacio de la Policía)

🛡️ +1 (809) 685-6020 — Casa del Conductor. Main accident report center (recommended for safety)

🏥 +1 (809) 567-4444 — Abel González Clinic (VIP-level medicine)

🔥 +1 (809) 682-2000 — Fire Department (Bomberos Distrito Nacional)

PUNTA CANA / BAVARO

👮‍♂️+1 (809) 552-1044 — POLITUR (Bavaro Tourist Police)

🚔 +1 (809) 686-8205 — DIGESETT (Bavaro/Friusa) – fine and accident processing

🏥 +1 (809) 455-2111 — IMG Hospital (Modern hospital for tourists)

🏥 +1 (809) 689-2000 — Centro Médico Punta Cana

🔥 +1 (809) 455-1555 — Fire Department (Punta Cana)

LA ROMANA / BAYAHIBE

👮 +1 (809) 556-2581 — La Romana Regional Police Headquarters

👮‍♂️ +1 (809) 833-0504 — POLITUR (Bayahibe)

🏥 +1 (809) 556-3135 — Canela Clinic (Central hospital of the region)

🏥 +1 (809) 550-5555 — Central Romana Medical Center

LAS TERRENAS / SAMANA

👮 +1 (809) 240-6022 — Las Terrenas Police

👮‍♂️ +1 (809) 240-6644 — POLITUR Las Terrenas

🏥 +1 (809) 240-6103 — Clínica Specialized Las Terrenas

🚗 +1 (829) 688-1000 — Asistencia Vial (Critical on the Santo Domingo – Samana highway)

JARABACOA / CONSTANZA (MOUNTAINS)

👮 +1 (809) 574-2540 — Jarabacoa Police

👮 +1 (809) 539-2228 — Constanza Police

🏥 +1 (809) 574-4515 — Centro Médico Jarabacoa

🔥 +1 (809) 539-2503 — Constanza Fire Department

⚠️ Note: In these areas, brake failure and engine overheating are common problems. The Asistencia Vial number saves lives here.

MONTE CRISTI (NORTHWEST)

👮 +1 (809) 579-2212 — Monte Cristi Regional Police

🔥 +1 (809) 579-2460 — Fire Department

🏥 +1 (809) 579-2311 — Hospital Padre Fantino

4️⃣ DIPLOMATIC ASSISTANCE (HOTLINES)

🇷🇺 +1 (829) 259-7031 — Russian Embassy (Duty officer, emergencies only)

🇺🇸 +1 (809) 567-7775 — US Embassy (Emergency unit)

🇨🇦 +1 (809) 262-3100 — Canadian Embassy

🇫🇷 FRANCE

Phone: +1 829 607 20 35 (free call at local rates, Mon–Fri 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Website: do.ambafrance.org

🇪🇸 SPAIN

Embassy: +1 809 535 65 00

Consulate (general inquiries): +1 809 450 2222

Emergency number for Spanish citizens: +1 809 697 30 35 (24 hours)

Email: cog.santodomingo@maec.es

🇮🇹 ITALY

Phone: +1 809 682 0830 (Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM)

Emergency number (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM and weekends): +1 829 342 4942

5️⃣ QUICK REFERENCE (by priority)

🚨 1 – Injuries, fire, crime in progress → Call 9-1-1

🚗 2 – Breakdown on the highway → Call +1 (829) 688-1000 (free)

👮 3 – Conflict with police / bribe demand → Call POLITUR +1 (809) 200-3500

⚖️ 4 – Complaint against police misconduct → Call Internal Affairs +1 (809) 682-2151 Ext. 2445

🏥 5 – Inflated medical bills → Call SISALRIL +1 (809) 920-0200

📄 6 – Accident report (safe location) → Call Casa del Conductor (regional numbers above)

🚨 MAIN RULE

💾 Save these numbers in your phone BEFORE you start driving in the Dominican Republic. 🇩🇴

WHEN CONTACTING THE HOSPITAL

1️⃣ YOU HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO IMMEDIATE CARE

Main laws: Law 87-01 (Social Security System) and Law 42-01.

What this means for you:

A clinic must provide emergency care in critical condition (injuries, heart attack, bleeding, etc.), even if you have no money or insurance with you.

A hospital DOES NOT HAVE THE RIGHT to refuse to stabilize your condition. "First they save you, then they ask for documents."

🚨 WHO TO CALL IF YOU ARE DENIED CARE:

SISALRIL (Superintendencia de Salud y Riesgos Laborales): +1 (809) 920-0200 — main oversight body.

2️⃣ REQUIRED ACTIONS UPON ADMISSION

📄 STEP 1: IMMEDIATELY REPORT YOUR INSURANCE

Right at the entrance or during registration, say: "Tengo seguro de viaje / seguro médico" (I have travel / medical insurance).

Name the company and your policy number. Ask them to contact your insurance provider.

🛂 STEP 2: DO NOT GIVE YOUR PASSPORT AS A DEPOSIT

It is strictly forbidden to leave your passport as a deposit for treatment. This is illegal.

What to do: Offer a color copy of your passport or your driver's license. Say: "Es ilegal retener mi pasaporte. Aquí tiene una copia" (It is illegal to withhold my passport. Here is a copy).

🤝 STEP 3: CALL YOUR INSURANCE ASSISTANCE

Most insurance policies have a 24/7 hotline. Call them before signing any paid procedures.

Ask the operator to contact the clinic directly to confirm a guarantee letter (coverage of expenses).

3️⃣ IMPORTANT WARNING ABOUT INSURANCE FRAUD

"The Medical Scam Scheme":

Some private clinics (especially in tourist areas) practice the following:

You are brought in after an accident or injury.

They say: "Your insurance doesn't cover this. Pay in cash."

They present a bill 5–10 times higher than the real cost of services.

How to protect yourself:

❌ DO NOT PAY IN CASH immediately, unless your life is in immediate danger.

📸 PHOTOGRAPH all documents and bills they give you.

📞 CALL SISALRIL — they were specifically created to combat inflated bills and have already penalized clinics for such violations.

4️⃣ YOUR MAIN WEAPON: DETAILED INVOICE (FACTURA DETALLADA)

Demand a "Factura Detallada" (Detailed Invoice) BEFORE paying.

This is an official document with a line-by-line breakdown of:

📋 Each procedure

💊 Each medication

⏱️ Each minute in the room

👨‍⚕️ Each doctor's consultation

Why this is important:

Scammers hate detailed invoices. If you ask for one — 90% of scams fall apart.

Your insurance company will only reimburse expenses if you have this document.

By law, the clinic must provide it. If they refuse — this is a clear sign of fraud.

5️⃣ WHAT TO DO IF THEY FORCE YOU TO PAY (OR WITHHOLD YOU)

Calmly say: "Llamaré a SISALRIL y a mi seguro ahora mismo" (I will call SISALRIL and my insurance right now).

Call SISALRIL (their number is +1 (809) 920-0200). They have the authority to fine the clinic on the spot.

Call POLITUR (+1 (809) 200-3500) — if you feel threatened or pressured (withholding of passport or person).

📝 QUICK CHECKLIST UPON ADMISSION:

✅ 1. State your insurance policy number

✅ 2. Do not give your passport (only a copy)

✅ 3. Call your insurance before procedures

✅ 4. Demand a Factura Detallada (detailed invoice)

✅ 5. If fraud is attempted — call SISALRIL

🚨 MAIN RULE

In the Dominican Republic, the law is on your side. Clinics must treat you, and fines for violations are huge (up to 200 minimum salaries). Do not be afraid to assert your rights.

FIRST AID

PART 1 — CRITICAL CONDITIONS (LIFE-THREATENING)

⚠️ First action for any of these conditions — immediately call emergency services (9-1-1) or ask someone nearby to do so.

1. ⚡ ELECTRIC SHOCK

What to do:

🚫 DO NOT touch the victim with bare hands while they are still in contact with the electrical source.

🔌 Disconnect the power source (unplug, turn off the breaker, push the wire away with a dry wooden stick).

✅ After disconnection — check breathing and pulse.

🔄 If not breathing — start CPR (chest compressions and rescue breaths).

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not use metal objects to push the wire away.

❌ Do not run toward a high-voltage wire (step voltage hazard).

2. CHOKING (airway obstruction)

What to do (Heimlich maneuver):

If the person is conscious and cannot breathe/speak/cough:

Stand behind them, wrap your arms around their waist.

Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the navel but below the ribcage.

Grasp your fist with the other hand and thrust sharply inward and upward.

Repeat until the object comes out.

If the person is unconscious:

Start CPR (chest compressions may push the object out).

If a child under 1 year is choking:

Place them face down on your forearm, supporting the head.

Give 5 back blows between the shoulder blades.

3. 💧 DROWNING

What to do:

🏊‍♂️ Remove from the water (if safe for you).

🗣️ Check consciousness and breathing.

🔄 If not breathing — immediately start CPR (first 2 rescue breaths, then 30 compressions).

📞 Call 9-1-1 (or ask someone else to).

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not waste time trying to "drain water" from the lungs — this delays CPR.

4. ❤️ HEART ATTACK (myocardial infarction)

Symptoms: chest pain (pressure, burning), pain in left arm/jaw/back, cold sweat, shortness of breath, nausea.

What to do:

🪑 Sit or lay the person in a comfortable position (semi-sitting).

🚑 Call 9-1-1 immediately.

💊 If the person has medication (nitroglycerin, aspirin) — help them take it (if not allergic and no contraindications).

🧊 Loosen tight clothing, provide fresh air.

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not leave the person alone.

❌ Do not give food or drink.

PART 2 — INJURIES AND EXTERNAL DAMAGE

5. 🤕 HIT THE HEAD (traumatic brain injury)

What to do:

❄️ Apply cold (ice wrapped in cloth) to the bruise for 15–20 minutes.

🧐 Monitor the person's condition for 24 hours.

🚨 When to seek emergency care (signs of concussion or intracranial bleeding):

Loss of consciousness (even for a second).

Nausea or vomiting.

Severe headache that worsens.

Unequal pupil size.

Slurred speech or confusion.

Seizures.

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not let the person sleep if a concussion is suspected (wake every 2–3 hours and ask simple questions).

❌ Do not give painkillers before a doctor's examination (they may hide symptoms).

6. 🩸 BLEEDING (external)

What to do:

✅ Venous/capillary (dark blood, slow flow) — apply a pressure bandage, elevate the limb.

🚨 Arterial (bright red blood, spurting) — apply a tourniquet above the wound (write down the time of application!).

🧼 Wash minor wounds with clean water, apply antiseptic.

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not remove a blood-soaked bandage — put a new one on top.

❌ Do not leave a tourniquet on for more than 1–1.5 hours in summer or 30–60 minutes in winter.

7. 🦴 FRACTURE (suspected)

Signs: pain, swelling, limb deformity, inability to move, grinding sound.

What to do:

🚫 Immobilize the limb (splint from available materials: stick, umbrella, board).

❄️ Apply cold to the fracture site.

🚑 Call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room.

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not try to realign the bone yourself.

❌ Do not put weight on the broken limb.

8. 🔥 BURN (thermal)

What to do:

Cool the burn with running cold water for 10–20 minutes.

Apply panthenol or special ointment (only for mild 1st–2nd degree burns).

Cover with a sterile bandage.

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not apply oil, butter, sour cream, or urine.

❌ Do not pop blisters.

❌ Do not peel off stuck clothing.

9. 🐚 CUT / WOUND

What to do:

Wash with clean water or saline solution.

Apply a sterile bandage.

Check when the last tetanus shot was given (every 10 years).

For deep cuts (muscle/fat visible, heavy bleeding):

🚑 Go to an emergency room — stitches may be needed.

PART 3 — INTERNAL NON-TRAUMATIC EMERGENCIES

10. HEATSTROKE / SUNSTROKE

Symptoms: red skin, headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion, high body temperature.

What to do:

Move to shade or a cool place.

Wipe with cool (not ice-cold) water.

Give small sips of water.

Apply cold to the neck, armpits, and groin.

If unconscious or high temperature does not decrease — call 9-1-1.

11. HYPOTHERMIA

What to do:

🏠 Bring into a warm place.

🧣 Remove wet clothing, wrap in a dry blanket.

☕ Give warm sweet drinks (no alcohol!).

👐 Warm gradually (do not use hot water or heating pad immediately).

What NOT to do:

❌ Do not rub with snow or alcohol.

❌ Do not give alcohol.

12. 🤢 POISONING (food, alcohol, medication)

What to do:

🚑 If the person is unconscious, not breathing, or having seizures — call 9-1-1 immediately.

🗣️ If conscious — find out what and how much was taken.

🚫 DO NOT induce vomiting if you don't know what was ingested (vomiting is dangerous with acids, alkalis, or petroleum products).

💊 Keep the package or sample for doctors.

💧 Give water to drink (if no contraindications).

13. 🐝 ALLERGIC REACTION (anaphylaxis)

Symptoms: swelling of the face/throat, rash, itching, difficulty breathing, drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness.

What to do:

🚑 Call 9-1-1 immediately (this is life-threatening).

💉 If the person has an auto-injector (epinephrine / EpiPen) — help them use it.

🪑 Sit or lay them down (semi-sitting if breathing is difficult).

📋 QUICK REFERENCE (WHAT SHOULD ALWAYS BE AT HAND)

Call an ambulance — 9-1-1 (Dominican Republic)

Stop bleeding — Pressure bandage or tourniquet

CPR — 30 compressions : 2 breaths

Do no harm — Do not give medications unless you are sure

Protect yourself — Use gloves if available

TRIP-ASSISTANT

📱 HOW TO INSTALL

FOR IPHONE

FOR ANDROID

EMERGENCY SERVICES

SELECT THE SITUATION IN WHICH YOU NEED HELP

TRIP ASSISTANT

ACCIDENT / BREAKDOWN

FIRST STEPS AFTER AN ACCIDENT

1️⃣ Immediately After Stopping

2️⃣ Document the Scene & Collect Data

3️⃣ Key Phone Calls

4️⃣ What You Must NEVER Do

5️⃣ Protection Against Pressure at the Scene (if someone tries to frame you)

6️⃣ Police Arrival (DIGESETT)

7️⃣ Getting the Report – What You Must Receive

IF YOU BREAK DOWN ON THE ROAD

1️⃣ FIRST ACTIONS AT THE SCENE

⚠️ Turn on your hazard lights

2️⃣ REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENED BEFORE YOU STOPPED

3️⃣ CHECK THE DASHBOARD

4️⃣ INSPECT THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR

5️⃣ OPEN THE HOOD (IF THERE IS NO SMOKE)

Check:

6️⃣ WRITE DOWN EVERYTHING

7️⃣ CONTACT A MECHANIC

8️⃣ MAKE A DECISION

EMERGENCY CONTACT LIST

🚨 EMERGENCY SERVICES

🛣️ ROAD ASSISTANCE & TRAFFIC POLICE

🏛️ ACCIDENT CLAIM CENTERS:

⚖️ COMPLAINTS & POLICE MISCONDUCT

🔧 TOW TRUCK SERVICES (GRÚAS)

📋 QUICK REFERENCE (by priority)

POLICE CONTACT / TRAFFIC STOP

WHAT TO DO AND HOW TO BEHAVE?

1️⃣ STAY CALM

2️⃣ LET THEM KNOW YOU DON'T SPEAK SPANISH

3️⃣ RECORD EVERYTHING ON CAMERA

4️⃣ SHOW DOCUMENTS WHEN REQUESTED (BUT DON'T HAND THEM OVER)

5️⃣ KEEP YOUR HANDS VISIBLE

6️⃣ DO NOT ALLOW A SEARCH WITHOUT WITNESSES OR A WARRANT

7️⃣ IF A SEARCH IS UNAVOIDABLE

8️⃣ IN ANY DANGEROUS SITUATION – CALL POLITUR

9️⃣ WRITE DOWN THE OFFICER'S NAME AND BADGE NUMBER

🔟 NEVER PAY A FINE ON THE SPOT

1️⃣1️⃣ DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING IN SPANISH

1️⃣2️⃣ IF THE OFFICER THREATENS YOU WITH A WEAPON OR ARREST

⚠️ WHO TO CALL RIGHT AFTER BEING STOPPED (if you have time)

🚨 MAIN RULES (REMEMBER THESE)

YOUR RIGHTS / LAWS

⚠️ MAIN WARNING

❌ NEVER DO THIS

🛡️ KEY RULES OF PROTECTION

1️⃣ Golden rule: "Silence is protection"

2️⃣ The "Iron Recording" protocol (before police arrive)

3️⃣ Dealing with DIGESETT (police) – Law No. 63-17

4️⃣ Casa del Conductor – your trump card

5️⃣ Risk of detention (Article 40 of the Constitution)

6️⃣ The "Fake Witnesses" scheme

👮 POLICE CORRUPTION

🏥 MEDICAL FRAUD

⚖️ A LAWYER IS WORKING AGAINST YOU IF:

🚛 IMPOUND LOT

📜 YOUR RIGHTS UNDER DOMINICAN LAW

🏛️ CONSTITUTION OF THE DR

🚗 LAW 63-17 (Traffic Law)

🔍 CRIMINAL PROCEDURE CODE

🏥 HEALTHCARE (Laws 87-01 and 42-01)

🛂 IMMIGRATION (Law 285-04)

🗣️ DEFENSE PHRASES IN SPANISH

👮 WHEN STOPPED BY POLICE

🚗 AFTER AN ACCIDENT

🏍️ WHEN SET UP BY A MOTORCYCLIST

🔍 DURING A SEARCH

🛂 WHEN YOUR PASSPORT IS BEING HELD

💰 DURING EXTORTION

🚨 MAIN RULES (REMEMBER THESE)

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

1️⃣ NATIONAL EMERGENCY SERVICES (24/7)