Breaking down on the side of the road is never ideal—especially when you’re stuck in heavy traffic, poor weather, or an unfamiliar area. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or a mechanical failure, safety should always come first while you wait for assistance.
This blog post shares essential safety tips for handling roadside breakdowns, including how to position your vehicle, use hazard signals effectively, and stay in communication. And if you’re in the GTA, Roadside Assistance in Toronto with CDRA offers prompt roadside help across Toronto, getting you back on the road as quickly and safely as possible.
Choosing a Safe Location
One of the first steps after experiencing car trouble is to find a safe spot to pull over. Your location can significantly impact your safety while waiting for assistance.
Pull over as far from traffic as possible
If your car is still functional, aim to pull over to the right-hand side of the road or shoulder, leaving as much space as possible between your vehicle and passing traffic. This distance acts as a buffer, reducing the risk of being hit by oncoming vehicles.
Turn on hazard lights
When your car breaks down, immediately turn on your hazard lights. These flashing lights signal to other drivers that your vehicle is stationary and in distress, helping to alert them to give your car extra room as they pass.
Consider nearby landmarks
Note any landmarks or identifiable features nearby, such as mile markers, signs, or intersections. Not only does this help you describe your location when calling for assistance, but it can also help tow truck drivers find you faster.
Visibility is Key
When you’re stranded on the roadside, visibility can mean the difference between safety and danger. Ensuring you and your vehicle are as visible as possible minimizes the chance of accidents.
Use reflective warning triangles
If you have reflective safety triangles or road flares in your emergency kit, set them up behind your vehicle to alert drivers. Place one triangle 10 feet from your vehicle, another 50 feet away, and a third 100 feet behind it. This setup warns oncoming traffic well in advance of your stationary car.
Wear bright or reflective clothing
If you need to exit your vehicle, wearing a bright or reflective vest or jacket can significantly enhance your visibility, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions.
Ensure vehicle lights are functioning
Make sure your tail lights, hazard lights, or interior lights are on, especially when visibility is low. If your electrical systems aren’t working, set up extra reflective or illuminated markers to make your vehicle stand out.
Staying Inside Your Vehicle
While waiting for help, staying inside your vehicle is often the safest option. However, there are measures you should take to maximize your safety.
Lock doors
It’s essential to lock your doors while waiting, as this helps deter opportunistic criminals from targeting your vehicle. Safety isn’t just about traffic; personal security matters, too.
Keep seatbelts fastened
Even though your car isn’t moving, keeping your seatbelt on adds an extra layer of safety. It protects you in case an out-of-control vehicle crashes into your car.
Avoid distractions
While you wait, avoid getting lost in distractions like scrolling through your phone. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, as conditions can change unexpectedly.
When to Exit Your Vehicle
Although staying in your vehicle is generally safer, there are specific situations where exiting becomes necessary. Knowing when and how to leave your car can protect you from unnecessary harm.
Only exit if necessary and safe to do so
Step out of your car only if remaining inside poses a greater risk, such as during a vehicle fire. Before exiting, check for oncoming traffic from both directions.
Stay away from moving traffic
If you must exit, always walk on the side of your vehicle facing away from active traffic. Keep as far from the roadway as possible to avoid being hit by passing cars.
Be aware of your surroundings
Always stay vigilant. Whether it’s other drivers, wildlife, or uneven terrain near the shoulder, your safety depends on how well you assess and adapt to your surroundings.
Communicating with Emergency Services
When you’re stuck by the roadside, getting help quickly and efficiently depends on how well you communicate with emergency services or the towing company.
Have your location ready
When calling for assistance, provide clear details about your location. Use GPS on your phone, mile markers, or nearby landmarks to describe your whereabouts accurately.
Describe your vehicle and situation
Inform the dispatcher about your vehicle’s make, model, and colour, as well as the nature of the issue (e.g., a flat tire or engine failure). This ensures the tow truck arrives prepared to handle your specific situation.
Follow instructions
Once you’ve contacted help, carefully follow any instructions given by the dispatcher or emergency services. They may provide advice on staying safe while you wait.
Safety First, Always
The experience of waiting for a tow truck doesn’t have to be overwhelming or dangerous if you’re prepared. By following these steps to choose a safe location, prioritize visibility, stay inside your vehicle when possible, and communicate effectively with emergency services, you can greatly reduce risks and ensure a smoother wait.
It’s always wise to carry a roadside emergency kit and familiarize yourself with safety measures long before you need them. After all, preparation is the best way to plan for the unexpected.
Stay safe out there, and remember: a little caution goes a long way.