If your car breaks down on the highway, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do before a tow truck arrives.
You Know Your Vehicle Can No Longer Drive
- Turn on Hazard Lights: Immediately turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you’re having an issue.
- Reduce Speed: Gradually reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements to maintain control of the vehicle
- Move to the Shoulder: If possible, steer your car towards the right shoulder of the road. If you’re unable to get to the right, the left shoulder is a secondary option.
- Avoid Stopping in Traffic: If you can, avoid stopping in the middle of the road or in traffic lanes. If your car is immobile, turn on your hazard lights immediately.
- Park Carefully: Once you’ve reached a safe spot, put your car in park, apply the emergency brake, and turn off the engine.
After Pulling Over
- Stay Inside: It’s generally safer to remain inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, especially if you’re close to traffic. Exiting the vehicle can be dangerous, particularly on busy highways.
- Call for Help: Use your phone to call roadside assistance, a tow truck, or emergency services. Provide them with your exact location, such as mile markers, exits, or GPS coordinates.
- Keep Hazard Lights On: Leave your hazard lights on until help arrives.
While You Wait
- Exiting Safely: If you must exit the vehicle (e.g., if there’s a fire or you’re in immediate danger), do so from the side away from traffic. Move to a safe location, like a guardrail or a safe distance away from the roadway.
- Use Signals: If another driver stops to offer help, remain cautious. It’s safer to communicate through a slightly open window and ask them to call for professional assistance if needed.
- Monitor Traffic: Keep an eye on approaching traffic, especially if you’re near a busy highway.
- Keep Updated on Assistance: Stay informed about the estimated time of arrival for roadside assistance or emergency services.
Following these steps can help ensure your safety and the safety of others when dealing with a breakdown on the highway and if you need help you can always call Dean’s at 919-872-4476 24 hrs a day and we’ll be there as soon as we can to help.
