Emergency Car Breakdown: Must-Know Safety Tips & Solutions
Going on a long drive sounds fun, right? Everyone enjoys outings, night drives, etc. But what do you do when there is an emergency car breakdown? Such situations are usually not in our control and can occur at any given time. Therefore, it is important to know the basics of handling a car breakdown emergency and also some useful tips that could prevent such breakdowns from occurring. If you lack the knowledge of these basic tips and tricks and worry about getting stuck in a similar situation, fear not!
The article below is your one-stop solution for such situations. It will provide you with some of the must-know safety tips to help you manage any car breakdown emergencies that come your way. By following this guide, you will be able to ensure not only your safety but also that of your passengers and other vehicles passing by. So, buckle up to find out how.
Immediate Steps to Take in a Car Breakdown
Car breakdowns can occur for a variety of reasons; however, here are some basic steps you must follow in all situations to ensure the safety of the people in the car as well as other vehicles on the street.
1. Move to a Safe Spot
Pulling over to a safe spot or to a corner where your vehicle wouldn’t cause danger for other vehicles is the first step in any car-related emergency. If the car has stopped due to an engine failure or lack of gas, try to push the car to a safe spot. This helps in preventing any further mishaps or complications. It also ensures your safety and that of your fellow passengers as it eases the process of getting out of the vehicle while waiting for help. However, if the issue isn’t as serious as smoke coming from the car, it is advisable to remain in the vehicle. Exiting the vehicle, especially in a stranded place or during night hours, can cause a threat to your safety.
2. Turn on Hazard Lights
After having moved your car to the nearest safe spot, your next best move should be to turn on the hazard lights. These blinking red-orange lights are designed to cut through traffic and alert other drivers on the street about some problem that has occurred. This simple step not only ensures your visibility to other vehicles but also gives you time to figure out your next move. At times, hazard lights also act as a sign for help. Passing vehicles or people who see these lights can come to provide assistance. It is ideal to keep these lights on till you find proper car breakdown assistance. Additionally, if you have the warning triangles/cones with you, place them behind your car for better visibility.
3. Assess the Problem
Check for the source of the problem. As mentioned earlier, car breakdowns can occur for a variety of reasons. Look out for the cause of your vehicle breakdown and see if it can be handled on your own. For instance, if the vehicle has stopped due to a tyre issue, replacing it with your spare tyre can bring the car back to its working condition. On the other hand, if there’s a serious issue with the engine or any other component of the vehicle that you cannot fix on your own, it is ideal to call for assistance.
4. Call for Car Breakdown Assistance
There are several roadside assistance services available on the internet. Call any of your trusted services to seek immediate help. Additionally, there are several toll-free numbers set in place for national highways, road emergencies, etc. These numbers are designed to provide timely care and support to individuals caught in such emergency car breakdowns or other road-related accidents. Most often, new vehicles come with complimentary road assistance services. If your vehicle is newly purchased or if you have vehicle insurance, you could call them for help.
5. Stay Safe Until Help Arrives
You know you’re in safe hands the moment help arrives; however, until then you need to take precautions to ensure your safety. Do not leave the car unless it’s needed. Remaining inside the vehicle not only increases your safety but also that of your belongings. In unfamiliar places or stranded areas, it is highly suggested to remain in the safety of the vehicle until help arrives.
Eventually, when help arrives, they will check your vehicle for problems. If the damage is intense, they might recommend you take it to the nearest garage or have it towed while you continue to your destination through another vehicle. The question now is how to find a good towing service nearby.
How to Find the Best “Car Towing Services Near Me”?
Here are some ways in which you could find a good towing service to help tow your car during a breakdown.
Online Search: We live in a modern tech-savvy world, one simple search of “car towing services near me” can give you a list of services that you could access at any given time. Ensure to check the reviews and ratings before choosing one for yourself.
Check with Your Insurance Provider: If you have a car insurance plan, do not hesitate to seek their help and support when in need. Ask for their recommendations, as they might know better how to assist you in such situations.
Verify Licensing and Pricing: Choose a service that is upfront and clear on their pricing aspects. You do not want to find out any additional hidden charges after having used the services. Also, do not fail to verify that the towing company is insured and licensed.
Conclusion
A car breakdown emergency can put anyone in a fix. Stay prepared for such situations as they can happen at any time to anyone. There’s no denying that proper car maintenance and care significantly reduces the chances of such sudden breakdowns; however, there is no fool-proof guarantee that it can completely prevent them from occurring. Implementing these above-mentioned tips and practising safety precautions can not only help you better handle the situation but also prevent it from escalating any further. Remember, your safety is always a top-most priority. Drive smart, drive safe.
FAQs
- What should I do first when my car breaks down?
The first and foremost thing to do when your car breaks down is to pull over the vehicle and turn on the hazard lights. This action not only ensures your safety but also alerts other vehicles on the road about a car breakdown or emergency.
- How can I stay safe during a car breakdown?
Remaining inside the vehicle unless it is necessary to step out is one of the major ways to stay safe during a car breakdown.