Car breakdowns are stressful enough even when they occur in safer roadside locations, but when they happen on the freeway, panic can set in. The posted speed limits are there for a reason–they determine how quickly you can drive without endangering yourself or other drivers on the road.
If you’re trapped on a freeway due to a car breakdown, how can you feel safe and protected from the dangers of fast-moving vehicles?
For those looking for the best way to handle these unique situations, the following guide has everything you need to know about how to handle a freeway breakdown.
Know What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down
Your car starts to slow down, and you realize you’re losing power. You’re on the freeway, and you start to panic. What do you do? Here are five steps to take immediately if you find yourself in this situation:
1. Don’t Panic
If you find yourself in a situation where your car has broken down on the freeway, it is essential to remain calm. To keep from panicking in your car breakdown situation, one easy thing to focus on is breathing. Take a deep breath, then exhale slowly.
2. Turn on Your Hazard Lights
If you’re in a vehicle breakdown on the freeway, the first thing you should do is turn on your hazard lights. If you have a reflective triangle, set it up behind your car. This will let other drivers know that you’re in a disabled vehicle, and they should give you a wide birth.
3. Move Your Car to the Shoulder
If you have a breakdown on the freeway, you should do is move your car to the shoulder. You don’t want to be blocking traffic and causing a hazard. Once you’re on the shoulder, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Then, you can assess the situation and figure out what needs to be done. If you have a flat tire, you can change it yourself or wait for a tow truck. If your engine has overheated, you’ll need to wait for it to cool down before doing anything. If your car doesn’t start, you may need to call Geyers Towing if you need a tow truck.
4. Call For Help
If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road, there are a few things you should do immediately. If you have a cell phone, call for help. Whether you call a tow truck, a friend, call a tow truck, roadside assistance, or emergency services, let someone know where you are and what has happened. If you don’t have a cell phone, try to flag down a passing car.
5. Stay With Your Car
Once you’re safely off the road and have made a call for help. In the meantime, stay in your car with the doors locked. This will provide you with some protection from the outside elements and any potential danger.
By following these steps, you can help to ensure a safe and speedy resolution to your car breakdown.
Be Prepared for a Car Breakdown
If you find yourself in a car breakdown on the freeway, follow these five steps: remain in your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, call for help, move to the shoulder if possible, and be patient. By following these steps, you can stay safe until help arrives.
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