The likelihood of you experiencing a car breakdown is very high, as you can expect a blown tire or road debris to do so. Dead batteries, flat tires, and locked doors are the three most common reasons for requesting roadside assistance. Your AAA/CAA membership number or insurance information, if applicable. Use cellphones safely be aware of laws which prohibit using cellphones while driving. If the car breaks down while youre driving, quickly pull over to a safe place on the side of the road, as far away from traffic as possible. Drive slowly and use the emergency flashers/hazard lights to alert other drivers. This company provides excellent service. A vehicle breakdown can be dangerous if it happens on a busy road. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) recommends pulling your emergency brake, sometimes called the parking brake. The police will likely dispatch a tow truck to help you, so it is important that they have all the necessary information. Our team of specialists provides the best non-emergency roadside assistance. Take your car off the motorway Try to leave the motorway at the nearest exit or by pulling into a service station. Place them behind your car one about 10 feet from your vehicle, and another about 200 feet away. If this happens to you, there are several things you can do to stay safe. He got to us in 15 minutes and had my car open in just another 2 minutes or so. No, no, and no. Allstate auto insurance can help you stay protected for wherever the road takes you. The truck driver is required to inform you of any towing limits before you sign an authorization. If you are stranded on the side of the road, you may want to call a tow truck. Poor thing was huffled and limped right into the shop. The answer is yes, you can call the police if your car breaks down. Read this article to learn about your battery and when to change it. Place the second 30-60 feet (longer distances as the posted speed limit increases) directly behind the vehicle, lining it up with the middle of the bumper. No. Alternatively, if you need to pull onto the left shoulder, ensure that you are as far away from moving traffic as possible. He was able to get my vehicle running so it did not have to be towed. If you know how to deal with auto problems before they occur, you can be more confident in getting your car back on the road faster. Avoid checking for damage or making repairs if you're on a busy roadway or in the line of traffic. So what should you do if your car breaks down on the highway? There are a few different things you could call when your car broke down. Tip #1: Safely Pull Over Whether you're traveling on a major highway or a country road, getting off the road safely is an important first step. Click HERE for a state-by-state index of highway safety laws from the Governors Highway Safety Association. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Parking tickets cannot be obtained while parked. Despite vehicle advances, it's likely youll have a car breakdown at some point, such as a blown tire from a nail or roadway debris. Using emergency blinkers, try to find a spot on the shoulder away from any curves behind you. I unexpectedly broke down once last year but was on a side street and AAA was able to tow me. As of 4:30, officials reported Honoapiilani Highway was closed between the . It can be extremely frightening at night if your vehicle fails, particularly if the engine dies. If you get a flat tire, do not attempt to change it unless you can get to the side of the road and the tire is on the side of the vehicle thats safely away from traffic. Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies, and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. 3. The material on this website is provided for entertainment, informational and educational purposes only and should never act as a substitute to the advice of an applicable professional. If you dont have data or signal, you might be able to find a trustworthy towing company on the phone by dialing a number you put there on your phone. With a little patience and a little help, you can get back on the road as soon as possible. Once you and your passengers are in a safe location, either off the road or in your car, call 911. Get updates from Germania Insurance delivered straight to your inbox. First, check to see if you have a membership with a roadside assistance service, such as AAA. Very concerned he met all the needs to get me going and gave me sound advice in driving with undersize spare. If you do not seek roadside assistance, you will be required to contact someone to tow your vehicle to a nearby mechanic shop. Many Americans who own their own car are auto club members like AAA. Staying calm, steering out of traffic if possible, and being prepared for an emergency can help you stay safe when your car breaks down on the highway. If you've made it to the side of the road or are still in the road, there are several steps you can take to stay safe, including: If you've made it to a safe spot on the side of the road and traffic is clear, you should: For safety, there are several things you should not do including: Watch the video below to learn more about how you can stay safe if your car breaks down. In the event of a breakdown, you will be put in contact with the nearest towing company, and at no charge to you. The cloth or paper alerts drivers that your vehicle is in trouble and that they should proceed around you. You cant help yourself unless youre calm and waiting for help. Once you're safely out of the vehicle, prop up your hood to let other drivers know they should proceed with caution. The Germania Blog Digest Knowing how to respond to a car that breaks down on the side of the road is an essential part of this. Stay calmand dont allow yourself to be overcome with emotions such as panic, anger, frustration, fear, etc. As you pull your vehicle off the road, keep the following safety procedures in mind:
\r\n\r\nTry to coast along the shoulder until youre away from any curves in the road behind you. This placement pays off when youre ready to get back onto the road because you can spot oncoming traffic before its on your tail.
\r\nIf the engine dies right on the highway and you cant get off the road, dont get out of the car! Sitting in a dead vehicle with traffic piling up behind you is unnerving, but attempting to cross a high-speed freeway on foot is extremely dangerous.
\r\nIf its after dark, put the interior light on so that youre more visible. Before you travel, as part of your travel/itinerary planning, we'd urge you to check with the state public safety departments (or their websites) on your planned route for updated/current cellphone contact listings. If you break down, call the rental car company. We encourage you to use your own good judgment about what's appropriate for you and your property and always consider safety. If you require your vehicle towed, you should request an estimate of the repairs before allowing work to be completed. You should use the numbers, below, only to report vehicle breakdowns/problems, accidents, hazardous material spills, or other highway hazards/problems, as well as impaired or aggressive/reckless drivers and other criminal behavior. Before a road trip, contact AAA to arrange for a free test of your vehicles battery, starting and charging system. Our pages are filled with helpful tips and information about the topics that most of us face in our everyday lives. Get you to hazard signals and put them on the road from the back and front to warn other motorists. [1] Scott was the technician who came out and it seemed like he was here a total of 3 minutes. Not only is your day incredibly inconvenienced, but it can also be dangerous. AAA battery services include testing and on-scene replacement, if the member wishes. If you cant pull over, make sure youre in your car and move as far away from the road as possible. We value your privacy. Attempting to cross a road or highway is very dangerous and you'll be safer if you stay in the car. When you need help, you should call for it right away. Reputable firms have trained personnel who understand what to do in most situations. 2. If its after dark, put the interior light on so that youre more visible. Thanks so much. A safety check includes tires, lights, belts, hoses, fluids and windshield wipers. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. View Privacy Policy. America's Traveler Information Telephone Number", providing current road conditions & construction/closure information. Have you checked your vehicle's battery? If youre well-versed in that situation, the stakes arent as high. It is critical to consider cost, but this should not be the only factor. If you are stranded, you can call 911 for help. You can also call a friend or family member for help. Turn your hazard lights on if you have not already. The wait was a little long about 2 hours but we were in no hurry and the wait was well worth it because the service was awesome! If you dont have lights or markers, either turn on the interior lights manually or leave the car door thats away from traffic open so that the interior lights stay on. If you're broken down on a busy highway it's important to try to get your car off the road as soon as possible. Fortunately, most problems are preventable. Get updates from Germania Insurance delivered straight to your inbox. If you're in an emergency situation or are not sure who to contact, call 911 or the local police for help. If your car breaks down on the road and no one is hurt, the first person you should call is roadside assistance, your tow truck, or a mechanic for help. Pull off the road. Super respectful and easy going. File a claim online, by phone or by contacting your agent. Once youve spoken with someone about the situation, you should contact a tow truck. Be Prepared For When Your Car Breaks Down. However, they can also give your battery a jump, replace a faulty battery, tow you to safety, etc. Your insurance coverage will protect you if your vehicle breaks down or gets involved in an accident, ensuring that someone will be available to assist you. As soon as you notice something is wrong with the car, turn on your turn signal so you can safely proceed to the side of the highway or the shoulder. Always watch for oncoming traffic when placing warning devices. If you can't do this yourself call a tow truck and they will be able to help. - Coolant - Fire extinguisher - Flares, signal flag and/or reflective vest - Water, non-perishable snacks and basic first-aid supplies - including a thermal blanket - Sneakers - in case you need to. (area code) + 555-1212 non-local directory assistance, MANY STATES: 511 (for Road/Weather/Traffic Conditions). If your vehicle needs to be towed, repaired, or serviced, you can call or download an app to get assistance from your insurance company or another provider. If you can pull over to the side of the road, exit through the passenger-side door, avoid traffic, and, if possible, stand far away behind the guardrail. If you can pull over to the side of the road, exit through the passenger-side door, away from traffic, then stand far away - behind the guardrail, if possible. This is not a good idea at night because motorists coming up behind you may think that your vehicle is still rolling along the highway and run right into the rear end of your car. 2022 All Rights Reserved. Hummer EV SUV Is an 830-HP Open-Roof Off-Roader. 6/19/2023 12:30 AM PT. Stay safe by being prepared for such emergencies. However, it only took Duggers road service 15 minutes to get to my location and even less than that to unlock my car door. Finally, call or use the mobile app to reach CAA Roadside Assistance. However, if someone approaches you and offers help, then partially open the window and tell them to call the police. Your best friend? Whether youve managed to park at the side of the road or youre stuck in a traffic lane, remember these additional safety precautions: Roll down the window on the drivers side, hang out a white cloth or piece of paper, and roll the window back up to secure it in place. If its nighttime and youre not stuck in traffic, quickly place warning lights or reflective markers about six feet behind the vehicle to alert traffic, and then get back in the car. They will prioritize the call and dispatch help quickly. You can use the Endurance Mobile App to request roadside assistance, speak with a representative, and request any additional services. If you don't have a cell phone, turn on your hazard lights and wait for a State Police patrol. National advertising powered by Mediative.com. You may ride with the service provider, but not in your disabled vehicle. Depending on the time of day and the availability of tow trucks, it may take a while for help to arrive. "We understand things happen. If youre driving, you should be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions in the event of an emergency. She has appeared on hundreds of radio and TV shows, including NBC's Today show and the NBCNightly News. It hasnt been driven in a while, or it hasnt been driven in cold weather in a long time. Call for help. This will alert other drivers that you're broken down, according to the NMA. Sclar is also the author of Buying a Car For Dummies.
","authors":[{"authorId":8944,"name":"Deanna Sclar","slug":"deanna-sclar","description":"Deanna Sclar is an acclaimed auto repair expert. Phone numbers for the map and expanded listings (above) were acquired from various state law enforcement agency websites and other online government sources including the NHTSA's Programs Across the United States That Aid Motorists in the Reporting of Impaired Drivers to Law Enforcement, Final Report, March 2007. alking on your cellphone while you drive can certainly lead to distraction and accidents. Sclar lectures internationally on the ecological impact of vehicles and is active in promoting residential solar energy programs. When Your Car Breaks Down, Who Do You Call? Click HERE for a Although the Hummer, at 9640 pounds, is surely the heaviest pickup we've ever tested, it's also . As part of a long list of benefits, roadside assistance provided by providers such as AAA and AARP includes a variety of extras. If your car is having mechanical issues, you may want to call a mechanic. Should this be your only alternative to get help, ask for identification including name, phone number and address before accepting assistance. Some drivers, in addition to paying for roadside assistance, may also opt in to roadside assistance plans. This is one reason why subscribing to roadside service is a good idea! 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1 Defies Classification. You may then use your cellphone to call for help. Whether your rental car breaks down while stopped in a parking lot or while driving down the freeway, you should never react by panicking. If you have family or friends that can help you out, then you can try them out. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Use cellphones safely be aware of laws which prohibit using cellphones while driving. A tow truck operator answers all your questions! This video will show you how to handle an unexpected vehicle breakdown. The roadside assistance plan allows you to receive emergency assistance for minor vehicle problems such as flat tires, dead batteries, fuel delivery, towing, and even winching, depending on the plan. If your car breaks down on the highway, you may want to call a tow truck. *KTA (*482) Kansas Turnpike and for Wichita, KS, Louisiana: 911 or Cellphone-only: *LHP (star 547); If you can't find a number for a local tow company or roadside assistance, call 911. Many of these plans have low limits, and you may end up paying out of pocket for the majority of your service. with the UFC legend breaking down in tears during a video conversation . Please recognize that a particular tip may not be effective in every circumstance and that taking preventive measures cannot guarantee any outcome. Avoid driving in the travel lanes as much as possible. Mach1 emergency roadside assistance program, Effective Ways to Save on your Mobile Data, The Law Enforcement Exception To The Use Of Deadly Force, Swearing At Police Officers Is Not Appropriate In Massachusetts, Everything You Need To Know About Car Insurance Companies And Police Reports, The Police In Nigeria Have The Authority To Arrest Without A Warrant Under Certain Circumstances. Next, call attention to yourself and your vehicle. Deanna Sclar is an acclaimed auto repair expert. If your car or truck breaks down on the freeway in a few select regions, the California Highway Patrol's Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) may be able to help you out. Most roadside assistance programs will tow your car to a nearby service station or repair shop. What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway, https://duggerservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/what-to-do-when-your-car-breaks-down-scaled.jpg, https://duggerservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Duggers2019-Red2-Road-Service-batteries.png. If no call box is nearby, youre probably better off just hanging the white cloth or piece of paper out the window and waiting for the highway patrol. However, the way you go about handling the situation is incredibly important for fixing your car, getting you back on the road, and keeping you safe. This placement pays off when youre ready to get back onto the road because you can spot oncoming traffic before its on your tail. Thank you Scott for your professional service and quick response. Take it from one who knows: call the Freeway Service Patrol. Oklahoma DPS's Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, member FINRA. Sclar lectures internationally on the ecological impact of vehicles and is active in promoting residential solar energy programs. Once you arrive at the destination, youll be responsible for finding your own way home. Prevention and preparedness are key: If the engine dies right on the highway and you cant get off the road, dont get out of the car! With food inflation at 18.4%, supermarket bosses denied claims of profiteering in . Stay in your car until traffic has cleared. Read your owners manual to clearly understand which dash lights or signals indicate your vehicle is not operating properly and what to do in such situations. CALCASIEU PARISH, LA (KPLC) - It could happen to anyone - getting a flat tire or your car breaking down. If you are experiencing a fuel leak or smell fuel fumes, do not ignite a flare or use anything that produces a spark or flame. If your credit card includes one of these, you can usually find the cheapest roadside assistance programs. No one ever knows when your car breaks down is going to happen or have a collision. Steer your vehicle as far out of the travel lanes as possible. AAA service personnel should display an approved AAA/CAA emblem on their vehicles or produce identification. If no call box is nearby, youre probably better off just hanging the white cloth or piece of paper out the window and waiting for the highway patrol.
\r\nTo avoid being hit by a passing vehicle, never work on your vehicle from the side thats exposed to traffic. If you can, drive farther off the road to a safe, well-traveled place, and try to reach into the trouble area from the front or the side thats away from traffic.
\r\nIf its daylight, put on your emergency blinkers to alert oncoming traffic to the fact that your vehicle isnt moving. This is not a good idea at night because motorists coming up behind you may think that your vehicle is still rolling along the highway and run right into the rear end of your car.
\r\nIf its nighttime and youre not stuck in traffic, quickly place warning lights or reflective markers about six feet behind the vehicle to alert traffic, and then get back in the car. If you dont have lights or markers, either turn on the interior lights manually or leave the car door thats away from traffic open so that the interior lights stay on.
\r\nIf you get a flat tire, do not attempt to change it unless you can get to the side of the road and the tire is on the side of the vehicle thats safely away from traffic.
\r\nBecause driving on a flat tire for any longer than it takes to park safely can destroy the tire, you need to replace it close to where it went flat. Lo sentimos! Breaking down on a busy highway can be one of the most stressful situations. Accessibility If you can, pull over to the side of the road and exit the car through the passenger-side door, away from traffic. If you are stranded on the side of the road, you may be wondering if it is okay to call the police for help. 411 local directory assistance Fortunately, most problems are preventable. Yellow PagesTM, Walking Fingers & DesignTM, YP.caTM, YellowPages.caTM, Canada411TM, are trademarks of Yellow Pages Digital & Media Solutions Limited in Canada. Position the third device 120-360 feet behind the vehicles right side. Privacy If possible, you and any passengers should exit through the side of the vehicle facing away from the road. For California residents, click here to view the full version of the California Consumer Privacy Notice. Your annual maintenance services will cost you up to $3,500 less with the Endurance Advantage plan. This can help determine how much life is left in your battery and if any other components need repairs. Then quickly get as far to the right as you can. If your car breaks down on a California highway, who should you call? The following steps are a good starting place: Blind-Spot Monitoring and Lane-Departure Warnings, AAA Center for Driving Safety and Technology, Prescription & Over-The-Counter Drugs & Driving, Additional Substance Impaired Driving Resources, How to Pay for Roads, Bridges, and Transit, What to expect from emerengency road service, What to tell emergency road service operator or repair garage. Call or use an app to get a tow truck, mechanic or roadside assistance with your insurance company or other provider to help. Check that all of your battery cables are securely fastened. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Fruit, vegetables, rice and tuna are among products coming down in price, as scrutiny over retailers increases.