Breaking down on the side of the road can be stressful, especially if you’re on a busy highway or traveling at night. Whether you have a flat tire, engine trouble, or need a tow truck, your safety should always come first. Every year, thousands of roadside accidents happen because drivers underestimate the dangers of standing near moving traffic.
Knowing what to do during a roadside emergency can help protect you, your passengers, and other drivers. Here are practical steps every motorist should follow when they’re stranded.
Pull Over to a Safe Location
The moment you notice something is wrong with your vehicle, avoid stopping in a travel lane whenever possible. Slowly reduce your speed, turn on your hazard lights, and move your vehicle to the shoulder, an emergency lane, or a nearby parking lot.
If you’re on the highway, try to stop as far away from traffic as possible. Even a few extra feet can make a significant difference in your safety while waiting for assistance.
Turn On Your Hazard Lights Immediately
Your hazard lights are your first line of communication with other drivers. They signal that your vehicle is disabled and encourage motorists to slow down and move over.
During heavy rain, fog, or nighttime breakdowns, hazard lights become even more important because visibility is reduced. Keep them on until help arrives or your vehicle is safely moved.
Stay Inside the Vehicle When Possible
Many drivers make the mistake of getting out immediately after a breakdown. In most situations, staying inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened is the safest option, especially on busy roads and interstates.
Only exit the vehicle if:
•There is smoke or fire.
•Your vehicle is in an unsafe location.
•Law enforcement or emergency responders advise you to leave.
If you must exit, use the passenger-side door whenever possible to avoid stepping into traffic.
Make Yourself Visible
Visibility saves lives during roadside emergencies. Consider keeping these items in your vehicle:
•Reflective warning triangles
•LED emergency flares
•Flashlight with extra batteries
•Reflective safety vest
•Fully charged phone and power bank
Placing warning triangles a safe distance behind your vehicle can alert approaching drivers and provide them with more time to react.
Keep a Safe Distance From Traffic
If you leave your vehicle, never stand between your car and moving traffic. Stay behind a guardrail or move to a safe area away from the roadway.
Many roadside injuries occur because drivers stand too close to their disabled vehicles while waiting for help. Always assume that distracted drivers may not see you.
Call a Professional Roadside Assistance Service
Attempting repairs on a busy road can put you in danger. Professional towing and roadside assistance providers have the equipment and training to handle roadside situations safely.
Services commonly include:
•Emergency towing
•Flat tire changes
•Battery jump starts
•Fuel delivery
•Car lockout assistance
•Winch-out services
Having a trusted towing company’s phone number saved in your contacts can save valuable time during an emergency.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Every vehicle should have a roadside emergency kit. Recommended items include:
•Bottled water
•First aid kit
•Blanket
•Phone charger
•Non-perishable snacks
•Basic tools
•Jumper cables
•Rain poncho
Being prepared can make an unexpected roadside situation much less stressful.
Final Thoughts
No one plans to experience a roadside breakdown, but every driver should know how to respond when it happens. Staying calm, moving to a safe location, and calling for professional roadside assistance are the most important steps you can take.
The next time you’re stranded on the side of the road, remember: your vehicle can be replaced or repaired—but your safety cannot. By following these simple roadside safety tips, you’ll greatly reduce your risk and help ensure everyone gets home safely.