Car Broken Down? Don'T Make These 3 Mistakes!
Posted on: 1 February 2016
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When you have broken down on the side of the road, it can be extremely frustrating. What's even more nerve-wracking is if you're in the middle of nowhere and unfamiliar with your surroundings. In some instances, especially if you are without necessary emergency supplies, it can be dangerous. You can prepare yourself ahead of time for this potentially dangerous and scary situation by avoiding these three mistakes.
1. No Emergency Vehicle Kit.
It is imperative that you have various emergency items available to you if you are broken down, especially if you find yourself in cold or inclement weather. Your emergency vehicle kit should include things like a rain poncho, a flashlight, extra batteries, first aid supplies, jumper cables, reflective triangles, flares and a warm blanket. You should also ensure that you have some energy bars and drinking water available in the event that you remain stranded for an extended period of time.
2. Failing to Ensure You Are Easily Visible to Others.
Your auto emergency kit should have reflective triangles and flares, which should be used when you are broken down, especially at night or in inclement weather where visibility is low. These things will warn motorists of your "situation" early on so that they have adequate time to move into the other lane or slow down as they pass you. Don't forget to also ensure you lift your hood and switch on those hazard lights to make yourself even more visible.
3. Not Staying Inside the Vehicle.
When you are broken down, you may want to get out of the vehicle, but this isn't always the safest option. You are in just as much danger outside of your vehicle as you are inside, if not more so. This is particularly true on busy interstates or highways, in areas with limited visibility or on a road with little to no shoulder. Not only is there the chance of being struck by another vehicle, but you could get lost if you try to walk to find help. So, stay inside of your car, make sure your doors are locked and keep your seat belt fastened. Make your call for help inside the car and wait there until help has arrived.
If you have found yourself in the unfortunate situation of being broken down along the side of the road due to car troubles, make sure you avoid the aforementioned three mistakes. In doing so, you will be protecting yourself. Call a towing service like Express Tow & Recovery or even 911 if you don't have a towing service's number.