Safety First: Best Practices When Your Car Breaks Down

We all may have faced a situation where, in between our nicely planned journey, our cars decided to take an unexpected break. Sudden breakdowns can create panic, but knowing how to react can save you from drowning in a major disaster. Here are some best practices to follow when your car creates any unexpected hassle in the middle-

1. Finding a Safe Spot

When you sense difficulties, park your car in a safe spot first. In between a busy road, try to move to the side space beside it. Otherwise, alert others by the hazard lights that you might have a situation. I will help avoid any accidents and have scope to evaluate the situation.

2. Stay Visible

Staying visible is another important thing, especially when stranded at night due to adverse conditions. Once the vehicle is parked safely, use hazard lights or place reflective triangles, flares, etc., behind the car. It will help indicate your situation and will help them steer clear.

3. Call for Assistance

Smartphones made it easy to contact someone in need. Remember to get help by contacting any family member or a roadside assistance service. Additionally, there will be no better situation to utilize your automobile club membership (if any). You should wait for the help to arrive if you don’t have the expertise to engineer the situation. It may cost you some time, but remember that safety is more important than saving time.

4. Pop the Hood if Comfortable

Popping the hood can signal others that you have a mechanical issue, but don’t overdo anything out of your comfort zone. If you sense any risk, staying inside the car can be the best option.

5. Be Cautious of Strangers

While there can be genuine helping hands, only some have good intentions. Remember that you can politely decline help from random people and wait for your trusted people to arrive.

6. Stay Hydrated

Waiting inside the car without air conditioning during summertime can be problematic. So be prepared with the necessary equipment and store enough bottles in the car.

7. Don't Walk on the Road

We often find walking to a nearby gas station suitable, but remember, firstly, walking on a busy road can be dangerous. Additionally, the chances of locating a car are higher than those of a moving person by the rescuers.

8. Be Prepared with Equipment

As we are not programmed to predict the future, you should be prepared with these below-mentioned items for any unexpected car breakdown-

• Flags, flares, or reflective triangles
• Foods and water
• Charger and charged cell phones
• First aid box
• Warm layers
  

To Sum Up

We all know no one plans for a breakdown, but we should be prepared to handle the situation with proper equipment and mental strength to overcome the crisis. Remember, it is also vital to demonstrate responsible behavior on the road. It can be an adverse situation but always go for your safety measures rather than saving time.