Despite regular maintenance, you can’t predict when your vehicle’s tire might blow or when your car will simply stop working. The Insurance Information Institute suggests several important steps that will keep you safe if your vehicle breaks down.
Pull Over
You never want to leave your vehicle in the middle of the road. Drive it to the right shoulder or other safe spot before you attempt to figure out what’s wrong with it or call for help. This way, your vehicle won’t obstruct traffic, and you’ll have a clearer line of sight when you’re ready to return to the road.
Warn Others
Tell other drivers that you’re immobile and warn them to slow down by placing flares or reflective triangles on the road, at least six feet behind your vehicle. Â Make sure to turn on your hazard lights too.
Stay Inside
It’s tempting to stand outside and flag for help or attempt to fix your vehicle, but  this choice is dangerous on busy highways. Remain in your vehicle until roadside assistance or a helpful friend arrives.
Turn on Your Interior Lights
If you don’t have any flares or reflective triangles, to be seen during nighttime hours, turn on your car’s interior lights.
Hang a White Marker
A white fabric square, scarf or paper hanging from the driver’s side window alerts other drivers that you’re broken down and immobile. Secure a white object into place and then wait for help.
We Can Help
Breaking down on the highway is no fun, and it’s dangerous. Call Tracy-Driscoll at 866-589-3434 to learn about roadside assistance and the different auto insurance policies that are available. Although no coverage can actually prevent break downs, roadside assistance and the right auto insurance policy will give you peace of mind if you’re ever stuck along the road.
