Experiencing a breakdown on a highway is an all-too-common, stressful situation. It throws a wrench in your plans and, more importantly, raises valid safety concerns. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or a more serious mechanical failure, knowing what to do (and what not to do) makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll cover the do’s and don’ts to ensure your safety while waiting for assistance
The DO’s: Protecting Yourself and Others
- Get Off the Road (If Possible): The number one priority is to move your vehicle as far away from moving traffic as you can. Ideally, aim for the emergency shoulder on the right-hand side. If the shoulder or emergency stopping lane is unusable for any reason, try for extreme caution as you maneuver as far left as possible. In any case, engage your hazard lights immediately.
- Stay Inside Your Vehicle (With Exceptions): In most scenarios, your car still provides the best protection. Buckle up and remain inside while you assess the situation and call for help. The exceptions to this rule involve clear immediate dangers like your car potentially catching fire. Only then proceed to move further off the road, maintaining utmost caution for oncoming vehicles.
- Increase Visibility: At night, or in inclement weather, do everything possible to enhance your visibility. Activate your hazard lights, and ideally, your interior dome light too. Road flares or reflective triangles (often found in roadside kits) are very effective as well.
- Call for Help Immediately: If you find yourself in need of help, do not delay in reaching out. Promptly contact a local service provider for roadside assistance in Austin. When communicating your situation, ensure you provide a detailed description of your location, your vehicle, and the nature of your problem. To aid in your swift location, be exact about your whereabouts by referencing mile markers, exit numbers, or distinct landmarks.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Even with safety measures in place, it’s wise to stay alert. If someone approaches your vehicle, use your best judgment before interacting. Keep your windows mostly rolled up and ask to see some form of official identification (e.g., tow truck company, police) before unlocking your doors.
The DON’Ts: Mistakes That Put You at Risk
- Don’t Stand Around Your Vehicle: Standing alongside the road or, worse, attempting to repair your car in that spot leaves you dangerously exposed to moving vehicles. Prioritize seeking a safer zone away from traffic, even if that means leaving your car until help arrives.
- Don’t Panic: In an already stressful situation, panicking adds another layer of risk. Remember, help is on the way. Focus on the steps you can take, from moving your car to summoning assistance, to keep yourself and any passengers as safe as possible.
- Don’t Assume Others See You: While hazard lights provide a warning, some drivers are distracted or inattentive. Never assume that other vehicles see you clearly or will brake on your behalf.
- Don’t Get Complacent: Even if you’ve pulled far off the highway, remember the situation is still dynamic. Always keep an eye on oncoming traffic and remain ready to react should conditions change.
- Don’t Try to Be a Hero: It’s admirable to want to fix things yourself, but it can further cause issues and lead to delays. Hence, it is important to leave DIY repairs to the professionals. The highway shoulder is no place for complex problem-solving.
Additional Tips
- Emergency preparedness: Keeping a basic roadside safety kit in your car can make a huge difference. Items like a first aid kit, flares, a flashlight, water, and blankets provide basic necessities while awaiting assistance.
- Keep contact details handy: Program a road assistance company number into your phone for easy access during a stressful situation.
Conclusion:
Experiencing a breakdown on the highway is never ideal, but knowing how to handle it safely can make all the difference. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure your safety while waiting for roadside assistance in Austin. Remember to prioritize your well-being and stay vigilant until help arrives. Safe travels!