What to Do When Stranded on the Roadside: A Complete Guide
What to Do When Stranded on the Roadside: A Complete Guide
Table of Contents
Few situations are more stressful than being stranded on
the side of a road with a disabled vehicle. Whether you’re dealing with a flat
tire, engine trouble, or any other mechanical failure, knowing how to handle
the situation can make all the difference for your safety and peace of mind.
Immediate Safety Steps
Move to safety if possible: If your vehicle is still operational, try to pull over
to the shoulder as far away from traffic as possible. On highways, exit if you
can reach the next off-ramp safely.
Turn on hazard lights: Immediately activate your hazard lights to alert other
drivers of your presence.
Use visibility tools: If it’s safe to exit your vehicle, place reflective
triangles or flares 50, 100, and 150 feet behind your vehicle (in the direction
of approaching traffic). During daylight hours, raising your hood can signal to
others that you need assistance.
Stay with your vehicle: In most situations, it’s safest to remain with your
vehicle rather than attempting to walk along a busy road. Your vehicle provides
protection and makes you easier for help to locate.
Assessing the Situation
Determine your location: Note nearby exits, mile markers, or landmarks to help
roadside assistance locate you quickly.
Evaluate the problem: Can you safely identify what’s wrong with your vehicle?
Sometimes simple issues like a flat tire can be addressed temporarily if you
have the proper tools and knowledge.
Check your resources: Do you have access to food, water, warm clothing, or a
charged phone? Take inventory of what’s available to you.
Getting Help
Contact roadside assistance: If you have a roadside assistance membership through
your insurance, automobile club, or vehicle manufacturer, call them first.
Call a reliable tow service:
When you need professional towing
assistance, visit Find A Tow Service Directory to locate reputable towing companies in your area.
Emergency situations: If you feel unsafe or are in an emergency situation,
call 911 immediately.
While Waiting for Help
Conserve phone battery: Make necessary calls, then turn down screen brightness
and close unnecessary apps to preserve battery life.
Conserve fuel: Only run your engine periodically to maintain warmth in
cold weather. Ensure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow or debris to prevent
carbon monoxide poisoning.
Stay visible: Keep your hazard lights on and stay inside your vehicle
with seatbelts fastened, especially if you’re on a busy road.
Prevention for Future Trips
Regular vehicle maintenance: Keep up with scheduled maintenance checks to prevent
breakdowns.
Emergency kit: Maintain a well-stocked emergency kit including jumper
cables, basic tools, first-aid supplies, flashlight, non-perishable food,
water, and warm clothing.
Roadside assistance plan: Consider investing in a roadside assistance plan
through your insurance provider or an automobile club.
Useful Resources
Federal Highway Administration Safety Program:
Information on road safety and emergency
procedures.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
Comprehensive resources on vehicle
safety and emergency protocols.
Ready.gov – Car Safety:
Official government guidance on preparing for roadside emergencies.
State Department of Transportation:
Access your state’s specific roadside
assistance programs and information.
Remember that preparation is key to handling roadside
emergencies safely. By knowing what to do ahead of time and having the right
resources at your fingertips, you can turn a potentially dangerous situation
into a manageable inconvenience.
Need immediate assistance? Visit Find
A Tow Service to
connect with professional towing services in your area.
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