Originally published on 10/14/2015
Updated on 10/09/2024
Few things are more stressful than having your vehicle break down while driving. If you start to notice signs of trouble with your vehicle, it’s crucial to take action quickly and safely. Follow these essential steps to protect yourself and others on the road.
Pull Over Safely
At the first sign of trouble, aim to pull over to the right shoulder of the road. This is particularly important if you're driving on a highway or freeway. As you move your vehicle off the road, keep these safety procedures in mind:
- Choose a Straight Section of Road: If possible, coast to a straight section of the road, away from curves or bends. This helps you maintain visibility of oncoming traffic, which is important when you need to re-enter the road.
- Stay Inside Your Vehicle: If your engine dies, remain inside your car. It may be tempting to get out, especially if traffic is backing up behind you, but running across a busy highway is far more dangerous.
- Turn on Interior Lights at Night: If it’s dark outside, switch on your vehicle's interior lights so other drivers can see you. If your engine is still running, leave it on to avoid draining the battery.
Help Will Arrive
Most major highways are regularly patrolled by highway officers. If you're stranded on the side of the road, there’s a good chance that assistance will come soon. However, there are additional steps you can take to ensure your safety while you wait.
Extra Safety Precautions After Breaking Down
Once you’re safely off the road, follow these additional safety tips:
- Signal for Help: Attach a white cloth or piece of paper to the driver’s side window. Roll the window down slightly, slide the cloth or paper in, and then roll the window back up to keep it in place. This helps signal to others that your vehicle is disabled.
- Call for Roadside Assistance: Use your phone to call roadside assistance if you have service. If not, look for an emergency call box along the road. If neither option is available, the cloth in your window will serve as a distress signal until help arrives.
- Use Emergency Flashers and Flares: During daylight hours, turn on your vehicle's emergency flashers to alert other drivers that you're unable to move. If it's nighttime, avoid using flashers, as other drivers may mistake them for a moving vehicle and misjudge your position. If you have flares, place them around your vehicle for extra visibility.
Be Cautious with Repairs
If your vehicle has a flat tire, only attempt to change it if the flat is on the side of your car facing away from traffic. Changing a tire close to moving traffic is extremely dangerous.
Need Help? Contact AAMCO Lee’s Summit
If your vehicle breaks down, trust the expert technicians at AAMCO of Lee’s Summit to get you back on the road. We specialize in a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance services. Call us today for fast, reliable assistance.
