Driving can often feel like a routine and mundane activity, but it's critical to remember that you're piloting a vehicle that likely weighs several tons. While few Americans can get through an average day without getting behind the wheel, it's important to treat driving with the respect it deserves. Likewise, it's crucial to know what to do when you find yourself in an automotive emergency.
Fortunately, many drivers will only infrequently experience these emergencies, and it's possible to go for many years without ever finding yourself stuck on the side of the road. However, your luck may not hold out forever. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, these three tips will help keep you safe as you make your first call for roadside assistance.
1. Maintain Situational Awareness
It's never fun to break down, suffer a tire blowout, or otherwise find yourself forced over to the side of the road. Of course, these situations can also be stressful and frightening, especially if you've never experienced them. It's easy to let panic take over in these situations, robbing you of critical situational awareness when dealing with any emergency.
If you need to pull off the road, stay aware of your surroundings and look for a safe location. Remember that getting out of traffic flow is always the most important thing you can do. If your situation can afford you a few minutes to think, take the time to look for a safe, clear, and well-lit area to pull off the road. When possible, leave room for a tow truck to reach your car.
2. Know Who to Call
You'll usually only need to contact a roadside assistance company for a typical breakdown. If you've pulled your car safely into a breakdown lane, soft shoulder, or parking lot, there's no need to contact the police. However, contacting the authorities is important if you're in an unsafe situation, such as if your car breaks down in a traffic lane on the highway.
Remember that it's also always a good idea to contact a friend or family member whenever you break down. While you can make your roadside assistance call first, your second call should generally be to let someone know where you are and when you expect help to arrive. Although most breakdowns aren't dangerous, having someone who can check up on you while you wait is still helpful.
3. Stay Visible, Stay Put
Leave your hazard indicators and headlights on while you wait for help, even if it's the middle of the day and you're in a safe location. Maintaining a high degree of visibility will help other motorists avoid your car, keeping your frustrating breakdown from turning into a dangerous accident. The extra visibility will make it easier for your roadside assistance driver to find you.
It's also crucial to remain in your car and never exit into the traffic flow. If you're in a legitimately dangerous location, stay in your car and call the emergency police number. Otherwise, remain in your vehicle until help arrives.
Contact a local roadside assistance service to learn more.
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