Breaking down on the road can be a stressful experience, but knowing the right steps to take can help you stay safe and handle the situation effectively. Here’s a simple guide to follow if you find yourself in this situation.
1. Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely
- At the first sign of trouble, try to move your car out of traffic and onto the shoulder of the road. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to signal to other drivers that something is wrong.
- If you’re on a busy highway and can’t reach the shoulder, pull over as far as you can and stay inside the vehicle for safety.
2. Turn on Hazard Lights
- Your hazard lights make your vehicle visible to other drivers, especially in low visibility conditions or at night. This is essential for keeping you and your passengers safe while waiting for help.
3. Evaluate the Situation
- Once safely stopped, assess what might be wrong with the vehicle. Common issues include a flat tire, overheating engine, or dead battery. Knowing the issue can help you explain it to a roadside assistance provider or mechanic later.
4. Call for Roadside Assistance
- If you’re a TowSquad member, contact us for fast, reliable help with your breakdown. Whether it’s a flat tire, battery jump, or towing service, our team is available to assist.
- Not a member? Look up local towing or roadside assistance services to get immediate help.
5. Stay Inside the Vehicle (If Safe)
- Staying inside the vehicle is often safer than standing outside, especially on a busy highway. Lock the doors and wait for help to arrive. Avoid standing in front of or behind the vehicle to prevent accidents.
6. Display a Distress Signal
- If you have roadside emergency kits or reflective triangles, place them behind your vehicle to alert other drivers.
7. Know When to Leave the Vehicle
- If you’re in an unsafe location and your vehicle can’t be moved, exit from the side away from traffic. Find a safe spot to wait for assistance, away from the road.
8. Preventative Measures for Future Breakdowns
- Regular maintenance and inspections are key to avoiding breakdowns. Simple checks like tire pressure, oil levels, and battery health can prevent common issues.
Conclusion
A car breakdown can happen to anyone, but being prepared can make the situation manageable. Keep TowSquad’s number handy, and remember these steps to handle the situation with confidence and stay safe.