Breaking down on the highway can be a nerve-wracking experience. With vehicles speeding by and limited space to maneuver, it’s crucial to act quickly and wisely to ensure your safety and resolve the situation efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your car breaks down on the highway.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to remain calm and avoid panicking. Assess the problem to determine the immediate risks and whether the car is still drivable to a safer location. Understanding the situation will help you decide on the best course of action.
2. Move to a Safe Location
Pull Over to the Shoulder
If possible, guide your car to the shoulder of the road or the nearest safe spot. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers of your situation. If your car is completely inoperable, stay inside and wait for assistance unless there is an immediate danger like fire or smoke.
Avoid Stopping in Dangerous Areas
Do not stop on a curve, bridge, or in the middle of traffic lanes. If your car is stuck in an unsafe spot, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and call for emergency assistance.
3. Make Your Vehicle Visible
Turn on Hazard Lights
Your hazard lights signal to other drivers that your car is immobile and warn them to proceed with caution.
Use Warning Devices
If you have reflective triangles, flares, or cones, place them behind your vehicle to increase visibility. Position them about 50–100 feet behind your car, depending on the speed of traffic.
4. Stay Inside the Vehicle
Highways are dangerous due to fast-moving traffic. Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened unless there is a compelling reason to leave, such as smoke, fire, or being too close to oncoming traffic.
5. Call for Help
Contact Roadside Assistance
If you’re a member of a roadside assistance program, call them for help. They can provide services like towing, tire replacement, or fuel delivery.
Notify Emergency Services if Necessary
If your car is in a precarious location or causing a hazard to other drivers, call emergency services immediately to alert them of the situation.
6. Avoid DIY Repairs on the Highway
While it may be tempting to fix a flat tire or jump-start your car, doing so on a busy highway can be extremely dangerous. Only attempt minor repairs if you’re in a safe location and have proper tools and experience.
7. Exit the Vehicle with Caution
If you must leave the car—for instance, to place reflective triangles or inspect the damage—exit from the side opposite to traffic. Keep an eye on approaching vehicles and stay as far from the road as possible.
8. Wait for Assistance Safely
Stay in your car while waiting for help to arrive. If you’re unable to remain in the vehicle due to safety concerns, stand far away from traffic, preferably behind a barrier or in a safe area.
9. Be Prepared for Future Breakdowns
Carry an Emergency Kit
Stock your car with essentials like reflective triangles, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first aid kit, and basic tools.
Regular Maintenance
Preventative maintenance reduces the likelihood of breakdowns. Regularly check your tires, battery, engine, and fluid levels to keep your car in top shape.
Conclusion
Breaking down on the highway is never ideal, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference in staying safe and resolving the situation effectively. By staying calm, making your vehicle visible, and calling for professional help, you can handle the unexpected with confidence.
Preparation is key—ensure your car is equipped with an emergency kit, and keep the contact information for roadside assistance or a trusted towing service handy. Being ready for the unexpected ensures that you can get back on the road as quickly and safely as possible.
If you are in Cranbourne North, Victoria 3977, Australia, and looking for an emergency tow truck service or roadside assistance Melbourne service, this is the best way to visit us.
Casey Towing Transport
39 Majestic Blvd
Cranbourne VIC 3977
0435 555 400
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