1. Stay Calm and Stay Safe
Stay Calm: It’s natural to feel anxious if your car breaks down, but staying calm is crucial. Take a deep breath and focus on handling the situation safely.
Turn on Hazard Lights: Activate your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers that your vehicle is experiencing an issue. This increases your visibility and helps prevent accidents.
2. Pull Over Safely
Find a Safe Spot: If possible, steer your vehicle to the right shoulder of the road. Aim for a flat, level area away from traffic. If you can’t reach the shoulder, try to stop as far to the right as possible.
Stay in the Vehicle: If you’re unable to move your car out of traffic, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened. Exiting the vehicle in traffic can be extremely dangerous.
3. Assess the Situation
Evaluate the Problem: Try to determine the cause of the breakdown if it’s safe to do so. Look for warning lights on the dashboard or any obvious issues, such as a flat tire or overheating engine.
Avoid Risky Repairs: Unless you are in a very safe location and have the necessary skills, avoid attempting major repairs yourself. Leave this to the professionals to avoid injury or further damage.
4. Call for Help
Roadside Assistance: If you have roadside assistance coverage, call them for help. Provide your location, a description of the problem, and any relevant membership details.
Emergency Services: If you are in a dangerous situation or cannot safely move your vehicle, call 911 or your local emergency number. Inform them of your location and the nature of the emergency.
Friends or Family: If you do not have roadside assistance, you can also call friends or family members for help. They may be able to bring you necessary supplies or help you arrange a tow.
5. Make Your Vehicle Visible
Set Up Warning Devices: If you have reflective triangles, flares, or safety cones, set them up behind your vehicle to increase visibility. Place them at intervals to give oncoming traffic plenty of warning.
6. Stay Inside the Vehicle
Stay Inside: In most cases, it’s safest to stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, especially if you’re on a busy highway. This protects you from passing traffic and other potential dangers.
Lock the Doors: Keep your doors locked and windows up while waiting for help. This adds an extra layer of security, particularly if you’re in an unfamiliar or isolated area.
7. Use Your Resources
Mobile Phone: Use your phone to call for help and stay in touch with loved ones. If your phone battery is low, use it sparingly and consider turning off non-essential features to conserve power.
Emergency Kit: If you have an emergency kit in your car, use it. Items like blankets, water, and first aid supplies can be crucial if you have to wait for an extended period.
8. Exit Safely If Necessary
Exiting the Vehicle: If you must exit the vehicle, do so with extreme caution. Exit from the side away from traffic and move to a safe location, such as behind a guardrail.
Stay Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase your visibility to passing drivers. Avoid standing near the road where you could be struck by an oncoming vehicle.
9. Prepare for Towing
Have Your Documents Ready: When help arrives, you’ll need to provide your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Keep these documents handy to expedite the process.
Communicate Clearly: Inform the tow truck driver or roadside assistance provider of your vehicle’s condition and any special handling instructions. Provide clear directions to your desired destination.
10. Prevent Future Breakdowns
Regular Maintenance: Regularly maintain your vehicle to reduce the risk of breakdowns. Check your tires, battery, fluids, and other essential components frequently.
Plan Ahead: Before long trips, plan your route and identify gas stations, rest stops, and service centers along the way. Carry an emergency kit and ensure your phone is fully charged.
Conclusion
A car breakdown on the highway can be a daunting experience, but knowing what steps to take can help you handle the situation safely and efficiently. Always prioritize your safety, use available resources, and seek professional help when needed. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risks and get back on the road as soon as possible.
