At one time or another we will have to deal with a roadside breakdown. It is always a a hassle, a little scary, and inconvenient. No matter who you are or what you drive odds are you will find yourself with a broken down car on the side of the road (if it hasn’t happened already). There are multiple reasons why you might have to pull over and they may include: flat tire, fender bender, engine overheating, engine stall, dead battery, and more. The list goes on and on. Here are some tips for the next time you find yourself in an emergency situation.
- Pull as far off the road as possible while still remaining on paved road. Lots of times people pull over onto the side of a highway not realizing they have pulled over into a steep ditch. This will cause additional problems for you.
- Make sure you are pulled over with your hazard lights on in a safe place where other drivers will see you right away (preferably a straight section of the road). If you pull over at a curve in the road drivers may not be able to see you until it’s too late.
- Be sure to keep and emergency jack with wrench. These come standard with most cars. However, don’t count on it being there. Make sure you check.
- Turn your steering wheel away from the road to avoid accidently rolling into oncoming traffic.
- If possible move children or pets to a safe distance away from the car. If you cannot than be sure to securely buckle them in. Just because you are stopped doesn’t mean you are entirely safe yet.
- Large reflective triangles and cones will help you to be seen; especially at night. If you have them keep them in your trunk otherwise you can buy them. They are relatively inexpensive.
- If possible exit your car from the side that is away from the road. Even if that means climbing over your seats
- Keep a cell phone handy to call for help (police, AAA, family member, tow truck, etc.).
Keep these tips in mind and you will be prepared the next time you have to pull over in an emergency situation. Remember the most important thing is to be seen by the other drivers on the road and of course to keep calm.
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