Auto Breakdown Tips - What to Do in the Event of a Roadside Breakdown
A roadside auto breakdown can occur even when your car is well-maintained. While keeping up with regular services and making sure that important things such as batteries and alternators are in good working order will reduce your risk of a breakdown, there are some things that are out of your control. Unexpected issues such as complicated electrical failures or tire damage due to road debris can leave you stranded in some very inconvenient locations.
No one likes mechanical failure, especially when it happens on a busy highway. But, having a plan of action, and knowing what to do in the event of a breakdown can help make the experience less stressful and ensure that the problem is resolved quickly and efficiently.
Seven Auto Breakdown Tips
- Pull onto the shoulder. If your car breaks down while driving, your first priority is to find a safe place to stop that is away from the flow of moving traffic. Pull into the emergency lane or onto the shoulder, as far to the right as possible. It is also a good idea to turn your wheels toward the right, so if you are hit by another car, you will not be pushed back onto the road where you could endanger other drivers. Rather than using the shoulder, it is recommended that you exit the road and pull into a parking lot or service area, if you feel that you are able to safely to do so. Of course, remember to use your signal so the traffic behind you knows that you are pulling over.
- Use your hazard lights. Once your vehicle has safely stopped, it is important to turn on your hazard lights so other drivers are aware of your problem and will take extra caution. This is especially important to do at night but is also a good idea during daylight hours. If it is dark or visibility is poor, keep your low beams or parking sidelights on in addition to your hazard lights.
- Use warning devices. Place a reflective warning triangle or other warning device about 150 feet behind your vehicle, but make sure it is not an obstruction to moving traffic. If you do not have one of these, it may be a good idea to purchase one (or two).
- Remain in your vehicle? If you do not feel it is safe to remain in your vehicle, make sure to exit from the passenger side, and do not stand where you will block your lights or obstruct oncoming traffic. If possible, walk to a safe place where you can wait for help. Make sure to take note of your location first, so you can tell the tow truck or repair company where to find you.
- Call for help. If you have an automobile club membership or roadside assistance service of any kind, there should be a number on your identification card. Most GPS systems will also help you locate nearby repair shops or towing companies. If necessary, you may have to walk to the nearest highway call box and an operator will help you make arrangements for your vehicle. However, not all areas are equipped with roadside telephones, so you may have to look for a local business or wait until the police arrive, since someone will likely call 911, especially if you are hindering traffic.
- Roadside repairs. Do not attempt to make major repairs while on the shoulder of the road. If your problem is simple, such as low oil or coolant, you may be able to add the fluids quickly if you feel it is safe to do so. This may provide a temporary fix, so you can get your car to a safer location. However, crawling under your vehicle or attempting extensive repairs while on the side of a busy road can be dangerous.
- Mechanical Breakdown Protection. autoPOM! Platinum Mechanical Breakdown Protection plans cover virtually all your vehicle’s mechanical and electrical components. In the event of a roadside auto breakdown, having mechanical breakdown protection (commonly called an extended warranty) can really help. All autoPOM! extended breakdown coverage plans come with roadside assistance including towing, lost key/lock-out services, emergency fuel service, etc. In the event of a breakdown, all you have to do is make one phone call, and Mercury (autoPOM! administrator and underwriter) will take care of all the details. If your vehicle requires an extended stay in the shop, Mercury will even provide rental car assistance.
Mechanical failures are never enjoyable, but when you have mechanical breakdown protection, the only thing you will have to worry about is making sure you have the phone number when you need it. The peace of mind knowing that everything will be taken care of is worth the investment and will take the stress out of roadside breakdowns.
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