Being broken down on the side of the road is already a frustrating situation. Your car is messed up, you feel helpless, and it is probably going to make you late for wherever you were going. The last thing you want to do is add a dangerous situation to it. If you find yourself broken down on the side of the road, use these tips to stay safe while you wait for help.
Be Prepared
Obviously this can’t be done after you’ve broken down, but if you take time today to prepare your vehicle you will thank yourself later. One thing every car should have is an emergency kit. This kit should have reflective triangles or road flares, a first aid kit, bottles of water, tools for changing a tire, snacks, and anything else you think you will need in a vehicle emergency. While we hope you will never have to use it, being prepared before an incident is crucial.
Safely Pull Over
It is unusual for your vehicle to break down with zero warning signs. Typically, you will notice warning lights, overheating, or sputtering. At the first sign of trouble, it is important to get to safety. Ideally, this would be a well-lit parking lot, but if that isn’t available, put on your hazard lights and pull to the side of the road.
If you have to utilize the shoulder, once the coast is clear, get out your road flares or reflective triangles to alert oncoming traffic to your presence. Then get back in your car, and lock the door.
Call For Help
As much as you may want to call a friend or loved one to tell them what just happened, the first person you should call is a tow truck. If you have a roadside assistance program, call them and they will call the tow truck for you. After this, limit your phone usage so you can save your battery in case the tow driver needs to call you.
Sit Back and Relax
Yes, this is a stressful situation, but increased anxiety will only lead to increased blood pressure and potentially bad decisions. Keep your doors locked and only unlock them for authorities or your tow truck driver. That seemingly helpful passerby is probably trustworthy, but it is best to simply let them know that assistance is coming and you are okay.
Get Your Vehicle to a Trusted Mechanic
Rather than having your car towed to your home, let your tow truck driver know the name and address of your mechanic so you can avoid any further downtime for your car. If you breakdown in Burlington, Urb’s Garage is the best shop in the area. We also offer towing, so you know that you are in good hands from the moment the tow truck arrives.
Whether you are broken down and in need of help or just need to get your oil changed, Urb’s Garage is the full-service auto repair shop that has been serving Burlington since 1972. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.
