Experiencing a car breakdown on a highway can be stressful and dangerous. Knowing how to handle the situation can ensure your safety and help you get back on the road as quickly as possible.
Here are five crucial steps to take if your car breaks down on a highway.
1. Safely Pull Over to the Side
The first and most critical step when your car breaks down on a highway is to safely pull over to the side of the road. Use your indicators to signal to other drivers that you are moving to the shoulder.
Aim for a wide shoulder area or, if possible, an emergency lane to put as much distance between your vehicle and the moving traffic as possible. Ensure your car is entirely off the road to avoid obstructing traffic and reducing the risk of a collision. Once stopped, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your situation.
2. Assess the Situation
After pulling over, take a moment to assess the situation. Stay calm and try to diagnose the problem if you can. Check for any visible issues such as a flat tire, smoke, or fluid leaks.
If you are familiar with car maintenance, you might be able to identify the problem and determine if it’s something you can fix on the spot, like replacing a flat tire. However, if you are unsure or the issue seems serious, it is best not to attempt any repairs to avoid further damage or injury.
3. Call for Roadside Assistance
Once you have assessed the situation, call for roadside assistance or a tow-truck service. Many car insurance policies include roadside assistance, so check your coverage details. Alternatively, you can call an emergency tow truck service directly. Provide them with your exact location, which you can find using your smartphone’s GPS.
Be clear about your car’s condition so they can send the appropriate help. While waiting, stay inside your vehicle with the doors locked, especially if you are on a busy or unfamiliar highway. Only exit the vehicle if it is absolutely necessary and safe to do so.
4. Stay Visible and Safe
While waiting for assistance, ensure that your vehicle is as visible as possible to other drivers. In addition to keeping your hazard lights on, place reflective triangles or flares behind your car if you have them. This will alert oncoming traffic to your presence and help prevent accidents.
If you must exit the vehicle, do so cautiously, and stay as far away from traffic as possible. Always exit from the side away from traffic to minimize the risk of being hit by a passing vehicle.
5. Be Prepared for Future Breakdowns
After your immediate situation is resolved, take steps to be better prepared for any future breakdowns. Keep an emergency kit in your car, including items such as a first-aid kit, reflective triangles, flares, a flashlight, basic tools, and a spare tire with the necessary equipment to change it.
Regularly maintain your vehicle to reduce the likelihood of breakdowns. Knowing how to handle a breakdown can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and minimizing stress.
