OnStar Services Help: Emergency Services

OnStar Logo with Blue Backgorund

What services does OnStar offer in an emergency?

In an emergency, pushing the red Emergency button connects you to a specially trained OnStar Advisor who can notify first responders. Before help arrives, Advisors are certified to provide Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) assistance for situations such as shortness of breath, cuts, concussions, childbirth and other emergencies.  

 

You can use Emergency Services* to help others on the road too. If you witness a crash or see a stranded vehicle or a downed power line, you can become a Good Samaritan by pushing the red Emergency button. A specially trained Advisor can use GPS technology and the information you provide to rush whatever assistance may be needed. Emergency services are only available to members with a paid plan. 

What is Crisis Assist?

In severe weather conditions or a crisis, with OnStar Crisis Assist*, our Advisors provide a fast, knowledgeable resource if you need emergency assistance, help finding a route, or other services. They can also contact family members for you.

What sort of crises can OnStar assist with?

  • Severe Weather: Thunderstorms, tornados, flooding, hurricanes or winter weather 
  • Natural Resource/Man-Made Disasters: Energy/power outages, hazardous material situations or terrorist activity 
  • Natural Disasters: Earthquake, landslides, tsunamis, wildfires or volcanic eruptions 

How do I access Emergency Services?

There are two ways to access Emergency Services 24/7:  

  • Push your vehicle’s red Emergency button  
  • Call OnStar at 1.888.4ONSTAR (1.888.466.7827) to reach an Advisor in an emergency 

When should I push the red Emergency button?

  • To request police, fire or medical help  
  • To report an accident  
  • To request help for others on the road 

What do I do if I’m in a crash?

If you’re in a crash, built-in sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor and, with Injury Severity Prediction, the Advisor can help prepare first responders for the severity of the crash.* In certain collisions, an Advisor can be immediately connected into your vehicle to see if you need help, even if you can’t ask for it. 

What if I don’t know where I am?

Don’t worry—we can still pinpoint your location and send help. When you push the red Emergency button, your OnStar Advisor can use GPS technology to locate your vehicle.

What if I am unable to ask for help?

If an OnStar Advisor is connected to your vehicle, they can dispatch help to your location, even if you’re unable to ask for it yourself.

What is a Good Samaritan?

It’s someone who pushes the red Emergency button to help someone else when they see an emergency on the road. An Advisor can use GPS technology and the information you provide to locate the emergency and contact the nearest emergency service provider.

Does pushing the red Emergency button call 911?

No. Pushing the button connects you to a specially trained OnStar Advisor who can help provide medical assistance. They can also contact emergency service providers in the same manner that dialling 911 would. These specially trained OnStar Emergency Advisors can pinpoint your location and offer critical assistance, staying on the line with you until help arrives.

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