When a crash happens, the first hour can decide everything. India has launched a new program called Rah-Veer that pays people 25,000 Indian rupees, about $250, to stop and help road accident victims during the first 60 minutes after injury.

The program targets the so-called “golden hour,” when first aid can substantially improve a patient’s chances of survival. In India, ambulances often have to travel long distances, especially on rural roads, and may not arrive within that window.

That can leave badly injured motorists without basic help, including a tourniquet, a splint, or being placed in the recovery position.

Rah-Veer is open to all citizens, including people without medical training. Rewards will go to anyone who stops to help, and the payment will be shared if multiple people assist.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways wrote that Rah-Veer “ensures that citizens who help accident victims are shielded from legal complexities.”

The ministry said there is no requirement to disclose personal information and no one will be detained. It said privacy is protected, and if a statement is needed, it will be taken “quick, simply, and at a time and place of the witness’s choosing.”

Each year, the ministry will also select the 10 most courageous or important Rah-Veer interventions for a bonus $1,000 and a certificate of appreciation.

The same legislation also changes hospital funding so road crash victims cannot be refused treatment because they cannot pay upfront. Cashless treatment is guaranteed for the first seven days, hospitals cannot demand advance payment, and they cannot refuse admission.

The costs are expected to be covered through a new payment stream from general insurance companies in insured cases, and by a government fund in cases involving uninsured vehicles or hit-and-runs.

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