How to Stay Safe When Your Car Breaks Down?
Even a brand-new car can break down unexpectedly. While situations vary based on time of day, weather, and location, here are the general tips from multiple sources on how to keep safe in the event of a breakdown.
When you go out on the road, always have your cell phone and charger with you so that you can call for help if your car breaks down. It is a good idea to have membership in Roadside Assistance of some kind. If your car breaks down, stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt on. Don’t do anything foolish, and be careful who you trust. Be aware of where you are. Pull off to the right side, and get out of traffic, and at the same time, stay visible. Stay in your locked car, even if someone offers to help. Ask the person to call for help if you can’t.
There are things you can do to protect yourself:
1. Keep your purse and valuables on the floor.
2. Keep doors locked.
3. When you stop, keep the car in gear.
4. Travel in well-lit areas.
5. In cold weather, keep blankets, hats, scarves, and gloves in your car.
AARP has a list:
1. Pull off the road, take your foot off the accelerator.
2. Don’t all of a sudden slam on brakes.
3. Go to the right side of the road when possible.
4. Turn your wheels to the right so if you get hit, you won’t go into traffic.
5. Turn on hazard lights.
6. Stay in the car until you know for sure it is safe to get out.
7. Get out on the passenger side.
8. If you don’t have a phone, hang a white cloth out of your window so that state patrol knows you’re in trouble.
9. Use common sense, especially if you are alone.
10. If your car catches on fire or starts smoking, get out immediately, call Roadside Assistance, a tow truck, or 911.
The website drivingskillsforlife.com has 7 safety tips:
1. Pull your car off the road.
2. Get help.
3. Let others know you are in trouble.
4. Don’t leave your vehicle.
5. Don’t try to fix it.
6. Be aware of your surroundings and use wisdom.
7. Be careful who you trust, especially those you don’t know.
Regular maintenance on your vehicle will prevent a lot of problems. Get regular oil changes, tire rotations, check fluids, and get tune-ups if you need to.
If your car catches on fire, stop[ and turn it off immediately. Get everyone out of the car and get far away from it. Warn oncoming cars to stay clear of it. If you notice the car overheating, turn it off and let it cool.