The most important thing to do when you have a roadside breakdown is to ensure your safety and that of other road users. No matter how frustrated you may feel, keep safety as the first priority. Here are ten tips that will ensure your safety regardless of the situation.
1. Pullover
When you get car trouble, try as much as possible to go the safer side off the road. This is a position where oncoming traffic can see you well. Pullover in an open area and avoid corners.
2. In case of a flat tire, do not stop immediately
The first instinct when you feel a flat tire would be to stop at once given the damage caused to the tire and the rim. However, this is not a safe option as the obstruction you cause can result in an accident. Drive for a short distance until you get an open area where you can change the tire safely.
3. In the middle of the highway, do not get out
If your car suddenly stops in the middle of a busy road, do not get out at once. Hand a white cloth or paper on the windows on both sides of the car to show you are in distress then call for help. It is unwise to try maneuvering in between cars moving at high speeds.
4. Use your cell phone to get help
It is advisable to have a fully charged phone in your car for emergencies at all times. If you have one or not, still call for help from a breakdown service, your auto club, or dial 911 if you do not have an emergency contact.
5. Work your car away from traffic
Once you pull over and assess that the problem is something you can fix, no matter how inconveniencing it might be for you, work away from the side with traffic. Stay away from other vehicles to prevent additional accidents.
6. At night, increase visibility as much as possible
If you get car trouble at night and you are not in a busy area where you are visible to other users, increase your visibility. Before you even assess the situation, place reflective warning signs at least 3 meters ahead and behind your car to alert other motorists.
7. Alert other road users
During the day, the first thing is to ensure that your hazard lights are on to indicate to other motorists that your car has stalled. Add additional signs such as tires and other items to block the area around you to give other users an early warning.
8. Stay in the car
If you do not have an idea of what to do with your car, it is best to stay inside the car after placing adequate signals to other users you are in distress. Leave your car only when you are sure it is unsafe to stay inside
9. Be cautious of ‘Samaritans’
Although some of the people offering to help may be genuine, do not fail to exercise caution and tact when dealing with helpful passers-by. Some might not have your best interests at heart.
10. Keep your cool
No matter how dangerous the situation you are in, maintain your cool and think critically!
The most important safety tip when driving is to make sure that you stay as alert as possible and that you follow all the rules and regulations of the road. The best way to do this is to be aware and alert before you set out and to a new area.
Robert Keith has a keen interest in automobiles and its maintenance. He suggests 79th St. Auto Center for car repairs and services during the roadside breakdown.