A car breakdown on a busy highway can be a stressful and dangerous situation. High-speed traffic, limited space, and unpredictable road conditions can make handling a breakdown challenging. Knowing what steps to take can help keep you safe and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Move Your Vehicle to a Safe Location
As soon as you notice a problem, try to steer your vehicle toward the nearest safe location. If possible, move to the shoulder of the highway, an emergency lane, or an exit ramp. Avoid stopping in the middle of the road, as this increases the risk of a collision. If your car loses power and you cannot move it, turn on your hazard lights immediately to warn other drivers.
Turn on Hazard Lights and Stay Visible
Your hazard lights are crucial in alerting other drivers that your vehicle is experiencing trouble. Keep them flashing as long as your car is on the highway. If it’s safe, place reflective triangles or road flares behind your car to increase visibility. At night or in low-visibility conditions, turning on the interior dome light can also help make your vehicle more noticeable to passing traffic.
Stay Inside the Car if It’s Unsafe to Exit
High-speed traffic makes highways one of the most dangerous places to be stranded. If your car is stopped in a traffic lane and cannot be moved, it is usually safer to stay inside with your seatbelt fastened rather than risk crossing lanes on foot. If your car is safely on the shoulder, you may exit from the side facing away from traffic and stand behind a guardrail if one is available. Avoid standing too close to the roadway, as passing vehicles can create strong air pressure that might pull you toward the road.
Call for Roadside Assistance or Emergency Services
Once you are in a safe position, call for help. If you have roadside assistance coverage, contact your provider for towing or repair services. Many insurance companies, auto clubs, and vehicle manufacturers offer 24/7 roadside assistance. If you feel unsafe due to your location or a potential hazard, such as heavy traffic or poor weather, call emergency services for additional support. Providing your exact location using mile markers, GPS coordinates, or highway exit signs can help responders find you faster.
Wait for Help and Keep Yourself Safe
While waiting for assistance, remain inside your vehicle with the doors locked if you are in a risky area. Avoid accepting help from strangers, as this can sometimes lead to unsafe situations. If a highway patrol officer stops to assist, follow their instructions for staying safe. If your phone battery is low, conserve power by turning off non-essential apps and using only necessary calls or messages.
Conclusion
Breaking down on a busy highway can be a frightening experience, but staying calm and following the right steps can keep you safe. Moving your vehicle to a secure location, turning on hazard lights, staying inside when necessary, calling for help, and waiting safely for assistance are key actions to take. By knowing how to handle a highway breakdown, you can reduce risks and get back on the road as soon as possible.
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Coburg Towing Melbourne
31 Cameron St,
Coburg VIC 3058
03) 9999 7525
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