You can rarely predict when your car is going to break down. This article will cover some tips to remember during car breakdown, including: pulling over, getting everyone out and calling for help.
Pulling Over
Pull over and out of traffic if possible. Even if all of the emergency lights are activated, some highway drivers do not pay close attention and could rear-end the disabled fleet vehicle, causing further damage or injury.
The driver shouldn’t attempt to fix the vehicle, even if it appears it’s going to be a quick or easy fix. Wait for professional help to arrive. Source: Automotive-fleet
Getting Everyone Out
When exiting the car, do so from the passenger side away from the traffic and ensure all other occupants do so as well. If you break down on the outside lane of a motorway or on a high speed dual carriageway you and your party you will need to make your own decisions about safety. Normally the safest place is away moving traffic and your vehicle. Source: rac.co.uk
Calling for Help
Once in a safe place use a mobile phone to call the AA, making sure you can describe your location – look out for the new Driver Location Signs which will help us pinpoint your location and direction of travel, or there are reference numbers on all telephones and marker posts.
If you have a smart phone you can download the AA App, which uses the GPS function on the phone to find your exact location. With the simple touch of an icon both the call and the location are transferred to the AA Control Centre.
If you don’t have a mobile walk to an emergency telephone on your side of the carriageway – never attempt to cross the carriageway. Follow the arrows on the posts at the back of the hard shoulder – the phone is free and connects directly to the police/Highways Agency. Give full details to the police and tell them if you are a vulnerable motorist, such as a woman travelling alone. If you feel at risk from another person, return to your vehicle by a left-hand door and lock all doors. Leave your vehicle again as soon as you feel this danger has passed. Source: Theaa
But a bit of planning can make even the most unexpected car failure a more straightforward and less stressful experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please give us a call or contact now!
