Auto Repair: Essential Steps When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Prioritize Safety First

When your vehicle breaks down on the highway, your immediate concern should be safety. Before considering the costs or logistics of auto repair, focus on getting your car to a secure location and assessing the situation. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do:

Pull Over Safely

As soon as you notice signs of trouble, carefully steer your vehicle onto the shoulder of the highway. Avoid panicking and ensure you signal your intentions to other drivers. Check all mirrors and use your indicators to safely move off the highway.

Exit Through the Passenger Side

To minimize risk, exit your vehicle through the right-side passenger door, keeping you as far from traffic as possible. If this isn’t feasible, be extremely cautious and vigilant of oncoming traffic when exiting from the driver’s side.

Make Yourself Visible

Once safely on the shoulder, make your vehicle visible to other drivers. Turn on your emergency flashers and place reflective triangles or flares behind your car. This is especially crucial during low-light conditions.

Raise Your Car Hood

Raising the hood of your car signals to passing motorists and patrolling emergency services that you need assistance. This simple action can expedite help from authorities.

Avoid Accepting Help from Strangers

While waiting for professional help, stay inside your locked vehicle. If a stranger offers assistance, ask them to call for roadside help without opening your door. This precaution helps ensure your safety.

Do Not Cross the Highway

Many highways have emergency phones, but never cross the highway to reach one. Crossing multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic is extremely dangerous.

Handling Minor Repairs

If the issue is minor, such as a flat tire, you might be able to fix it yourself. Ensure you stand as far from the highway as possible while working. Always stay aware of your surroundings to avoid accidents.

Contact Roadside Assistance

Once you’ve taken initial safety measures, call for roadside assistance. Inform a family member or friend about your situation and location. This ensures someone knows your whereabouts and can provide additional help if needed.

Interesting Statistics

• Highway Breakdowns: According to the AAA, over 32 million drivers experience a breakdown each year in the U.S. alone (source).
• Common Issues: The most common causes of breakdowns include battery issues, flat tires, and engine problems (source).
• Safety Risks: A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that approximately 12% of all highway fatalities involve pedestrians, many of whom are stranded motorists (source).

Conclusion

Breaking down on the highway is a stressful event, but by following these safety guidelines, you can protect yourself and others. Always prioritize safety over immediate repairs and ensure you communicate your situation to both roadside assistance and a trusted contact. Remember, your safety is paramount.

For more information on roadside safety and assistance, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and AAA.